Bruno Guimaraes has never shied away from big battles in midfield, and the Newcastle United captain has revealed which Premier League stars have pushed him to the limit.
Speaking to Sky Sports ahead of Newcastle’s clash with Liverpool, the Brazilian midfielder named Arsenal’s Declan Rice as one of the toughest players he has faced since arriving in England.
Over the past five years, Mikel Arteta has built a side capable of challenging for the Premier League title and competing deep into the Champions League, with Rice quickly becoming the heartbeat of the Gunners’ midfield. Since his £105 million move from West Ham in 2023, the England international has established himself as one of the best all-round midfielders in the world.
Bruno, who remains one of Newcastle’s most loyal and influential players despite a tricky summer in the transfer market, couldn’t hide his admiration for Rice.
“I would put Rice second,” Bruno explained.
“He can defend, attack, score, tackle – he can do everything on the pitch. He’s a top player as well.”
Guimaraes ranked Manchester City’s Rodri as his toughest opponent, with Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister also earning praise. But placing Rice so highly highlights just how much respect the Arsenal star has gained among his fellow midfielders.
For Arsenal fans, it’s another reminder of the impact Rice has made in a short space of time – not only driving his team forward but also winning the recognition of rivals across the league.
Do you want me to make this in a news-reporting style (short, sharp, and SEO-focused) or more of an opinion/analysis style (with extra commentary about why Rice is rated so highly)?