5 things you should know about Arsenal’s new signing Bruno Guimaraes
By Joel Masibo, August 9, 2026Bruno Guimaraes has officially joined Arsenal from Newcastle United, becoming the club’s latest addition during the summer transfer window.
Although Arsenal supporters have watched the Brazilian midfielder compete against the club in recent seasons, there are plenty of interesting details about his career, background and life away from football that may be less familiar.
Here are 5 facts about Arsenal’s new number 39.
1. Impressive football shirt collection
Bruno is not only passionate about playing football, but he also enjoys collecting football shirts.
The midfielder has previously shared pictures of his extensive collection on Instagram, featuring jerseys from clubs across the Premier League, Europe and other parts of the world. His move to Arsenal now gives him the opportunity to add an Arsenal shirt to the collection.
2. Ended Newcastle’s long trophy wait
Bruno arrived at Newcastle United in January 2022 and quickly became a key figure as the club transformed from a side battling near the bottom of the table into a team competing for European football.
His influence in midfield was crucial, and in March 2025 he captained Newcastle in the Carabao Cup final against Liverpool at Wembley.
Newcastle won the final, allowing Bruno to become the first Magpies captain since Bobby Moncur to lift a major trophy. The victory also brought an end to the club’s 70-year wait for domestic silverware.
3. Arsenal’s 16th Brazilian player
Brazilian footballers have established a strong presence at Arsenal over the years.
A total of 15 Brazilians had previously represented the club at Highbury or Emirates Stadium, with five of those players arriving during Mikel Arteta’s tenure.
Bruno became the 16th Brazilian to join Arsenal in August 2026. He is also the first Brazilian central midfielder to represent the club since Denilson in 2011.
4. Spanish citizenship
Although Bruno was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, he also has a connection to Spain through his family.
His grandfather moved from Spain to Brazil, giving Bruno eligibility for Spanish citizenship.
5. Story behind his No. 39
Bruno’s choice of the number 39 is deeply personal.
The number is connected to his father’s work as a taxi driver in Brazil. He later received the same number while playing on loan at Athletico Paranaense, further strengthening its significance in his career.
Explaining the importance of the number in The Players’ Tribune in February 2023, Bruno said: “For me 39 is special no, it’s more than that. It’s magical. The number 39 gave me everything in life.”
Meanwhile, with his playing career now entering a new chapter in north London, Arsenal supporters will hope Bruno’s combination of experience, leadership and midfield quality can help the club challenge for major honours.