Bruno Guimaraes has already explained why he decided to join Newcastle United over Arsenal in the January transfer window. The 24-year-old was heavily linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium, though instead opted for St. James' Park.
He's featured 15 times for the Magpies since penning a four-and-a-half-year deal, steering Eddie Howe's side clear of a relegation scrap ahead of the final day of the season. Guimaraes has impressed since touching down in Tyneside, and he'll undoubtedly be keen to continue in the same vein of form in Newcastle's clash with Arsenal on the penultimate day of the season.
Had the Brazil international joined the north Londoners, he could've aided Mikel Arteta's pursuit for Champions League qualification. Though, ironically, Guimaraes outlined Newcastle's ambition to win the European competition as his reason for snubbing Arsenal.
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The tough-tackling midfielder has admitted that he spoke to other clubs that were interested in his services but refused to mention the north London club by name. When asked about Arsenal’s interest, Guimaraes told Sky Sports: "I did speak to some other clubs, but the only concrete offer came from Newcastle and I really wanted to come here.
"I’ve always wanted to play in the Premier League and on top of that it was the start of a new sporting project for the club."
The former Lyon star also has claimed that he wants to win the UEFA Champions League and Premier League with the Tyneside-based club. Guimaraes added: "If a club has a project and wants to aspire to the maximum, then it’s going to involve winning the Champions League. It’s the biggest club competition in the world and obviously, we’re keen on winning the Premier League as well.
"The Premier League is fast and intense. Its physicality is similar to France but the Premier League is definitely faster but the best way to learn is by practicing so when I play, I’ll be able to learn quickly."
Newcastle currently find themselves 14th in the league table, an impressive feat considering they were rooted to the bottom of the pile just a couple of months ago. Arsenal have also enjoyed a promising few months and are now fifth in the current standings, with a game in hand over fourth-placed Tottenham.
