The setback comes just as Guimaraes returned from a separate ankle issue, making only his second appearance since recovering.

Manager Eddie Howe described the injury as a "major blow" at a critical stage of the season. "I think it will be a couple of months. We're probably looking at the end of the international break in March for his return," Howe said after Newcastle's FA Cup victory against Aston Villa. He added, "Massive blow for us at a key stage of the season. He's devastated, but it is what it is. We can't do anything about it. We just have to get him back safely and other players have to step up in his absence."

Guimaraes' absence leaves Newcastle light in central midfield. Only Sandro Tonali, Joe Willock, and Jacob Ramsey were available for the trip to Villa Park, with Lewis Miley nursing a knee problem and Joelinton expected to return from a groin injury soon. Howe acknowledged the challenge, noting, "He brings so much quality, technical skill, passion-you'll never get a like-for-like replacement. We have to find a solution internally."

The Brazilian midfielder will miss several key fixtures, including both legs of the UEFA Champions League play-off against Qarabag, Premier League clashes with Everton, Manchester United, and potentially the Tyne-Wear derby against Sunderland. FA Cup commitments and league games against Chelsea also fall within his expected absence.

Despite the prognosis of eight to ten weeks on the sidelines, those close to Guimaraes remain optimistic. "Bruno will recover quickly. He takes great care of his body, mind, and life. We have to trust the process," a source told Chronicle Live. Guimaraes himself remains positive: "Once again, I hope it is nothing too serious and that I can be back soon."

Statistically, Newcastle have struggled without Guimaraes. Since his debut in February 2022, the Magpies have failed to win any of the 10 Premier League matches he missed, whereas they boast a 53.1 percent win rate and higher points-per-game with him in the squad. His absence will be felt at a pivotal moment as Newcastle navigate a congested schedule ahead of the international break.

Bernardo Silva misses former Man City team-mate Julian Alvarez