Bruno Guimaraes breaks silence on Newcastle exit as he accepts blame
Newcastle United were left frustrated on Sunday (2 March) when they exited the FA Cup and were left with just one opportunity for silverware this season.
The game against Brighton was packed with drama as both teams went down to 10 men, but Eddie Howe’s men ultimately let their one-goal lead slip.
Alexander Isak had put the Magpies ahead in the 22nd minute only for former Newcastle star Yankuba Minteh to equalize in the 44th minute.
The two teams then seemed destined to finish the match in a penalty shootout until Danny Welbeck broke Newcastle hearts with a 114th-minute winner to ensure the Seagulls would sore into the quarter-finals.
The defeat saw Newcastle crash out of the competition, meaning there is only opportunity to win silverware will be the upcoming EFL Cup final.
Howe’s side will meet Liverpool at Wembley Stadium on Sunday (16 March) with both teams looking to win the first domestic cup of the season.
Bruno Guimaraes makes Newcastle demand
Newcastle’s Bruno Guimaraes has looked ahead toward that important game with a public plea to supporters on X following the FA Cup disappointment.
He said, “Disappointed not to progress in the FA Cup, as it was clearly one of our goals. Moments like this are when we need to stick together the most. I know that when eliminations like this happen, it’s hard to accept, and we always look for someone to blame. If you need to fine one, you can blame me.
“We have two weeks before one of the most important games for the club in recent years, and we must be ready for this great opportunity. My only request is that, in this moment, we stay united as one and go after the best for the club because we still have great things ahead.”
Newcastle United will be missing a key player for the EFL Cup final
Guimaraes might be looking for the fans to rally around the team at Wembley Stadium, but they will be without a key player in Anthony Gordon.
The Magpies forward was sent off against Brighton for a blatant shove, and that straight red card means he will be suspended against Liverpool.
It’s a situation that obviously weakens the team given Gordon’s attacking qualities, with Newcastle fans admitting they lost respect for him in that moment.
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