Real Madrid deal huge blow to Newcastle United’s chances of keeping Bruno Guimaraes

English clubs are almost certain to miss out on a fifth Champions League spot - diminishing Newcastle United’s chances of keeping Bruno Guimaraes.

Manchester City and Arsenal were dumped out of the Champions League last night, ending Premier League participation for 2023-24. Newcastle and Manchester United had already been eliminated at the group stage.

With Liverpool and West Ham United on the brink of Europa League exits, England’s position on the UEFA coefficient table looks bleak. Germany and Italy boast seven teams in UEFA competition between them, with Bayern Munich and Bayer Leverkusen looking strong in two competitions.

By tonight, Aston Villa could be the sole representative English side provided they get past Lille in the Conference League. The ramifications could have consequences for Newcastle's ability to keep star asset Guimaraes this summer.

Speaking after February’s win over Nottingham Forest, the Brazilian dropped a strong hint that European qualification is key to him staying on Tyneside. He said: “We have to get Europe (football) again, try for the Champions League. I know it’s difficult but definitely (we are aiming) for the Europa League.

“Sometimes people speak a lot about me. I just speak a lot about football. I’m very happy here and I like how the fans think of me here. I enjoy my time here. The fans have been unbelievable for me and my family. I hope this can keep going for a long time.”

Champions League appears an impossibility, but England failing to earn a spot via the new coefficient system would also impact Newcastle’s plans. Even if Eddie Howe’s side finish sixth - their current league position - they must hope Man City do not slip up in the FA Cup.

Placing seventh may also not guarantee Europe if Coventry City or Chelsea win the FA Cup - assuming Man United clinch sixth. For Newcastle supporters, the thought of selling Guimaraes likely deals a bigger blow than missing out on another continental adventure.