Bruno Guimaraes has become the vital part of Newcastle United’s revival since arriving from Olympique Lyonnais for £40m [$53m] in 2022.
The Brazilian midfielder has already played 128 Premier League matches for the club, while scoring 22 goals and making 20 assists.
His influence is measured not only by his attacking creativity but also by defensive numbers showing over 200 ball recoveries last season.
He has established himself among Europe’s finest midfielders while wearing a number that most players of his position rarely consider wearing.
In a league where central midfielders often wear shirts like four six or eight he proudly steps out with 39.
This number has followed him across Athletico Paranaense, Lyon and Newcastle and remains an inseparable part of his footballing journey everywhere.
Fans see it each week on the back of their midfield conductor yet few know the extraordinary story behind its meaning.
Why Bruno Guimaraes wears number 39?
The number’s choice holds extraordinary meaning rooted in the sacrifices of his father Dick Guimaraes.
“The number on my jersey tells a story more beautiful than words can express and it carries everything,” he said [via Football Tweet]
“I know people think it’s a strange number for a footballer but for me 39 is truly special.”
👏 Bruno Guimarães explains why he wears the number 39 shirt:
— Football Tweet ⚽ (@Football__Tweet) September 26, 2025
🗣️ "The number on my jersey tells a story more beautiful than words can express. I know people think it’s a strange number for a footballer.
But for me, 39 is special. It’s magical. The number 39 gave me everything… pic.twitter.com/9tiu8UmHa3
“It’s magical. The number 39 gave me everything in life. It brought me here to Newcastle. It fed me, clothed me, and paid for the trips that allowed me to chase my dream of becoming a footballer.
“The number 039 was my father’s taxi number in Rio de Janeiro. My father drove that yellow taxi day and night so I could have food.”
“Now, when he walks down the streets of Newcastle, on the other side of the world, people stop him and ask for pictures. That yellow taxi kept my dream alive."
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