Bruno Guimarães has received his first Premier League Goal of the Month nomination as an Arsenal player after his spectacular strike against Sunderland was shortlisted for the September 2026 award.
The Brazilian midfielder made an immediate impact after joining Arsenal this summer, and his first goal for the club has now been recognised among the Premier League’s eight best strikes of September.
Guimarães scored against Sunderland on September 12 as Arsenal secured a 2–0 victory at the Stadium of Light. His goal came at a crucial moment in the second half and proved to be the breakthrough Mikel Arteta’s side needed.
A Stunning First Arsenal Goal
The match appeared to be heading towards a tense conclusion when Sunderland were awarded a penalty. However, Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya produced an important save to deny Enzo Le Fée.
Just 121 seconds later, Guimarães changed the game.
The midfielder received the ball outside the Sunderland penalty area before unleashing a powerful strike that flew into the net off the underside of the crossbar.
It was a spectacular finish and gave Arsenal the lead.
Bukayo Saka later converted a stoppage-time penalty to seal a 2–0 victory for the Gunners.
For Guimarães, the goal was particularly significant because it was his first goal since completing his move to Arsenal.
The former Newcastle midfielder had already attracted considerable attention following his summer transfer, and the strike against Sunderland provided an early memorable moment in his Arsenal career.
First Arsenal Goal, First Nomination
The Premier League has now officially included Guimarães’ effort among the eight goals shortlisted for the September 2026 Guinness Goal of the Month award.
The other nominees are:
- Harvey Barnes — Newcastle vs Bournemouth
- Bryan Mbeumo — Everton vs Manchester United
- Ainsley Maitland-Niles — Everton vs Manchester United
- Bruno Guimarães — Sunderland vs Arsenal
- Lewis Dunk — Coventry vs Brighton
- Nicolas Jackson — Tottenham vs Aston Villa
- Emiliano Buendía — Tottenham vs Aston Villa
- Jay Dasilva — Nottingham Forest vs Coventry
Fans were invited to vote for their favourite goal, with the supporters’ vote combined with that of a panel of football experts. The winner is scheduled to be announced on October 2.
Guimarães Starting a New Chapter at Arsenal
The goal also carries additional significance because Guimarães is beginning a new chapter in his Premier League career.
The Brazilian spent five years at Newcastle United before completing his move to Arsenal during the 2026 summer transfer window. He explained that he felt ready for a new challenge after building a strong history at St James’ Park.
His start at Arsenal has therefore been closely watched, particularly because of the expectations surrounding his arrival.
The Sunderland goal was an early statement from the midfielder.
Speaking after the match, Guimarães described the goal as a beautiful moment for himself and his family. He also acknowledged his history with Newcastle while making clear that he was now focused on creating a new chapter with Arsenal.
A Memorable Start
Guimarães has already demonstrated his ability to score spectacular goals from distance during his Premier League career, and the Sunderland strike added another one to his collection.
According to data highlighted by FotMob, Guimarães has scored eight Premier League goals from outside the penalty area since the beginning of the 2022/23 season.
Now, his first Arsenal goal has the opportunity to win individual recognition.
Whether it ultimately takes the September award will be decided through the official voting process and expert panel. But one thing is already clear: Bruno Guimarães has made an immediate impression at Arsenal, and his first goal for the club has been officially recognised as one of September’s outstanding Premier League strikes.
First Arsenal goal. First Goal of the Month nomination. Bruno Guimarães has announced himself in style. 🚨🔴