Newcastle Captain Slams Team's "Embarrassing" Performance in Derby Defeat

Magpies Skipper Rages After Tyne-Wear Derby Disaster

Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes didn't mince words after his team's 1-0 Premier League defeat to arch-rivals Sunderland on Sunday, calling the performance "unacceptable" and "embarrassing." The loss extends Newcastle's winless league run against their local rivals to 10 matches.

"We didn't perform the way we can perform," the Brazilian midfielder fumed to Sky Sports. "It's frustrating, it makes me angry. Our performance was not there today - no shooting, no crossing, no passing."

The visitors produced a toothless attacking display at the Stadium of Light, managing just two shots on target and generating a meager 0.25 expected goals (xG). Guimaraes admitted the team had failed their supporters in one of the season's most significant fixtures.

Howe Admits Derby Defeat Will "Sting"

Manager Eddie Howe echoed his captain's disappointment, telling reporters: "It's going to sting for a long time. Our performance was off what we needed it to be. The criticism will be louder and stronger because of the game's importance."

Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher analyzed: "There was fear from Newcastle going into this game. They didn't want to lose but didn't want to win it either. Eddie Howe has been let down by a lack of leadership at the top of the club."

Sunderland's Sweet Revenge

Sunderland defender Dan Ballard revealed his team drew motivation from Newcastle's celebratory photograph after their last derby meeting in 2024. The Black Cats mirrored the gesture post-match, with Ballard stating: "That hurt last time. We were so determined this time and thoroughly deserved the win."

The result continues Sunderland's impressive form, now unbeaten in their last 10 league matches against their northeast rivals.