A Journey in the UK

🟠 A Journey in the UK

Adventures of a Brazilian in Foreign Lands

"If you're scared, go scared anyway." — this phrase, taped to his suitcase with electrical tape, was what pushed Vinicius Guelis to leave the warmth of Campinas, Brazil, and face the biting wind of Wales.

Born on March 26, 1987, Guelis was never a famous ex-player. His journey in football began behind the scenes, taking coaching courses through the CBF Academy, and gaining experience through internships at Atlético Paranaense, Sevilla FC, and a short stint with Brentford U23s, where he learned that stats and post-match pizza can go hand in hand.

Now, at 37, he’s stepping into his first professional managerial role at the helm of the traditional Newport County AFC, in England’s League Two.

And he arrives armed with a tactics board, Google Translate on his phone, and a game plan that mixes a high defensive line, coordinated pressing, and a lot of faith in the goalkeeper.

“If I mess up, I’ll say it was on purpose. And if it works, I’ll write it down in my notebook.”
– Guelis, during his first press conference, with a half-nervous smile and a scarf he still doesn’t know how to wear properly.

2023/2024 Season - 

Newport County Announces Unknown Brazilian Manager – Internet Reacts (Sort Of) It’s official: Vinicius Guelis is the new manager of Newport County AFC. The club made the announcement on social media with a mysterious photo of the new boss standing in front of a yellow wall, wearing a zipped-up jacket and a serious expression — clearly still adjusting to the Welsh weather. The board called the hire “a modern and bold choice,” highlighting Guelis’ academic background and his practical experience through internships at Atlético Paranaense, Sevilla, and Brentford. Newport CEO: “We wanted someone with fresh ideas, who could think outside the box. He didn’t even know where Newport was on the map — which we saw as a very promising sign.” As expected, the media reacted with a mix of curiosity and skepticism. 🗞 South Wales Echo: "Vinicius who? Newport takes a chance on a manager with no professional record — but a great haircut." ⚽ Sky Sports Wales: "Too early to judge, but sources say he already ordered pizza for his staff after training. Adapting quickly." 📣 Fan Reactions Newport supporters were quick to weigh in. Here are some of the top comments from the club’s announcement post: 💬 @CountyTillIDie "If he plays attacking football and gets us out of mid-table, he can even bring his dad as assistant. I don’t care." 💬 @WelshDragon88 "Brazilian? Are we getting tiki-taka or barbecue? I’ll take both." 💬 @ShaneFromPill "Never heard of the guy, but the last coach I had heard of got us relegated. Welcome, mister!" Despite the mixed reception, there's a growing sense of curiosity around Rodney Parade. Pre-season is around the corner, and with it, the first clues about what the Guelis Era might bring. "I’m starting with zero points. The only way is up." – Vinicius Guelis, in his hopeful, slightly broken English.

PS: This is my first time doing a career and telling the story. If you have any tips, I'll be happy to receive them.

📅 August 2023 – A Turbulent but Promising Start

The opening chapter of Vinicius Guelis’ tenure at Newport County was filled with mixed emotions: painful defeats, tactical lessons, and a surprising run in the EFL Cup. The team is clearly still a work in progress, but there were moments of character that give fans reasons to believe.

🔴 August 5 – Accrington 3–2 Newport – League Two

The league opener was intense but frustrating. Newport struggled against Accrington’s high press and couldn’t manage defensive transitions well. Despite scoring twice away from home, individual errors at the back proved costly.

🟢 August 9 – Newport 2 (5)–(4) 2 Plymouth – EFL Cup (First Round)

In a dramatic cup tie, Newport held their own against League One side Plymouth and advanced after a tense penalty shootout. It was a gritty and tactical performance that showed early signs of mental strength — something Guelis later described as “essential to our project.”

🔴 August 12 – Newport 1–3 Doncaster – League Two

Back at home, Newport struggled to handle Doncaster’s direct style. Guelis experimented with a more attacking 4-2-3-1, but the team was exposed on the counter. Possession was inconsistent, and defensive cohesion still lacked.

🔴 August 15 – Crewe 3–2 Newport – League Two

Another close defeat, again conceding three goals. The team showed promise going forward but continued to leak at the back. Guelis mentioned the need for more aggressive pressing and focus from the back line. Concerns about away form were starting to grow.

🟢 August 19 – Newport 3–0 Forest Green – League Two

A much-needed first league win, and a convincing one. Newport dominated the game, controlled the tempo, and finally showed balance between attack and defense. The midfield trio played with cohesion, and the back line looked composed.

🔴 August 26 – Sutton 2–0 Newport – League Two

Consistency remains elusive. Newport struggled to create chances and offered little threat going forward. Guelis was blunt post-match: “We didn’t do enough to win today.”

🟢 August 29 – Newport 2–1 Bristol Rovers – EFL Cup (Second Round)

The month ended on a high as Newport knocked out Bristol Rovers. It was a composed, controlled performance — tactically disciplined and sharp in transitions. The fans responded with applause and growing belief in the process.

🧮 August Summary (All Competitions):

🟢 Wins: 3

🔴 Losses: 4

⚪ Draws: 0 (1 win on penalties)

⚽ Goals Scored: 12

❌ Goals Conceded: 13

Despite the inconsistencies, Guelis ends August with promising signs — especially in the team’s competitive mentality. The EFL Cup run is starting to turn some heads in the local press.

“The idea is clear. Now it’s about turning that into consistency.”
– Vinicius Guelis, after the win over Bristol Rovers.

☕ Guelis' Lucky Coffee The morning after Newport’s dramatic penalty shootout win over Plymouth, the coaching staff noticed something unusual: Vinicius Guelis, always methodical, had brought a cup of black coffee to the touchline just before kickoff. — “It’s just coffee, guys...” — he said, noticing the curious glances. But the team won. And in football, details matter. At the next training session, the cup appeared again. Then again before the match against Forest Green. And once more before the EFL Cup clash with Bristol Rovers — quietly resting beside the bench minutes before kickoff. Soon, what started as a simple habit became an unofficial ritual, both for Guelis and his staff. Known for his calm demeanor off the pitch, the coach now spends the final moments before each key match holding his coffee, eyes fixed on the field — as if the ritual helps him mentally step into the game. Attentive supporters have started to take notice on social media: “If Guelis has the cup in hand, we’ve got a good feeling about today.” And just like that, without any formal superstition, the lucky coffee earned its place in Newport’s matchdays. Simple, quiet, but always present — just like

📆 September 2023 – Adjustments, Big Wins, and a Reality Check

The second month of the official season brought Vinicius Guelis and his Newport County side through a rollercoaster of performances. There was clear progress on the pitch, with dominant wins and confident football, but also two late setbacks that served as a reminder of the challenges ahead. September was a month of contrasts — in both results and performances.

🟡 Newport 3–3 AFC Wimbledon – League Two

The month kicked off with frustration. Newport went 2–0 up with goals from Liam Smith and Jephcott, but collapsed in the second half, conceding the equalizer in the 87th minute. Guelis didn't hide his disappointment:

“We played a great first half, but you can’t declare the match over that early.”

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🟢 Newport 5–1 Brentford U21 – EFL Trophy

A confident and explosive response. Palmer-Houlden was the star of the night with four goals in a game where Newport dominated from start to finish. The team showed depth and maturity, capitalizing on every gap left by the young Brentford side.

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🟡 Crawley 2–2 Newport – League Two

Another away match, another lead lost. Goals from Palmer-Houlden and McLoughlin weren’t enough to seal the win, despite Newport recording 16 shots to Crawley’s 7. Defensive lapses in key moments continue to haunt the team.

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🟢 Newport 3–0 Barrow – League Two

A near-perfect home performance. With complete control from start to finish, Newport earned a comfortable win with goals from Seberry, Palmer-Houlden, and Will Evans. The defense looked sharp and the midfield dictated the pace of play — signs of a team finding its identity.

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🟢 Newport 4–0 Bradford City – League Two

The most complete display of the month. Goals came from set-pieces, build-up play, penalties, and counters. Omar Bogle stole the spotlight with a hat-trick, and the home crowd began to believe that something special might be building under Guelis.

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🔴 Newport 0–2 Bournemouth – Carabao Cup (3rd Round)

A reality check. Against Premier League opposition, Newport held their own in possession and effort but were undone by an early red card to Adam Lewis and a defensive error. Still, the team showed bravery and maturity.

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🎙️ Post-match Press Conference (Excerpt) Q1 – Do you think your team was naive against Bournemouth? “Not naive. Just too eager. The red card broke our structure. But we stood our ground.” Q2 – Despite the elimination, did the cup run strengthen your squad? “Absolutely. We faced stronger teams and competed with identity. This group grew from it.”

🔴 Salford 3–1 Newport – League Two

A frustrating end to the month. Despite having better spells in the game, Newport couldn’t convert control into goals. Scot Bennett found the net, but two late goals from Salford sealed the defeat. Guelis voiced concern about the team's energy and focus.

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📊 Monthly Summary:

Matches: 7

Wins: 3

Draws: 2

Losses: 2

Goals Scored: 21

Goals Conceded: 11

Despite the Carabao Cup exit and the final defeat to Salford, September showed positive strides. The team began to take shape, show its style, and prove it can be competitive across all fronts. Supporters are starting to believe.

“It’s not about winning every match. It’s about making Newport play the way it should.”
— Vinicius Guelis

In the next chapter I will remember to put the league classification

📆 October 2023 – A Rollercoaster in the Welsh Chill

Seven matches in 28 days, unstable weather, heavy pitches, and unpredictable opponents. October tested Vinicius Guelis and his Newport County side on every level — physically, emotionally, tactically, and mentally.

It was a month of highs and lows, with dominant victories, frustrating draws, and defeats that exposed the team’s limitations. Even so, the team remains alive on two fronts and continues to show signs of growth.

🟢 Newport 4–1 Colchester – League Two

An efficient, near-clinical night. Liam Smith shined with two goals and a complete performance down the right flank, while Brynn Morris and Delaney added to the score. The team showed maturity, especially after conceding an equalizer early on.

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🟡 Newport 1–1 Harrogate – League Two

A draw that felt like a loss. Newport controlled possession and created chances but had to come from behind. Palmer-Houlden equalized, but the team lacked sharpness in the final third.

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🟢 Newport 4–1 Walsall – EFL Trophy

Another strong showing in the competition. Goals from Payne, Charsley, Evans, and Bogle sealed a commanding win, even after Adam Lewis was sent off. The attacking volume stood out: 24 shots and 3.99 xG.

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🟡 Newport 0–0 Walsall – League Two

Just four days later, a rematch produced a completely different result. Newport dominated once again but was wasteful in front of goal, and Walsall’s keeper had a standout performance. One of those goalless draws where only one side leaves disappointed.

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🟢 Notts County 1–2 Newport – League Two

A gritty and valuable away win. Omar Bogle opened the scoring, and the team doubled their lead through a forced own goal after pressure from Charsley. Newport held firm defensively in the second half with discipline and focus.

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🔴 Gillingham 3–1 Newport – League Two

The worst performance of the month. Despite having more possession and shots, Newport was outplayed at critical moments. Adam Lewis scored the lone goal, but defensive frailty returned — something that had seemed under control recently.

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🔴 Swindon 2–1 Newport – League Two

A frustrating end to October. Newport played well in parts, with Charsley scoring a beautiful equalizer before the break. However, Swindon capitalized on their only big second-half chance. Guelis’ team lacked that final push to recover again.

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🎙️ Post-match Interview – Swindon Game     Question: Are you planning any signings for the upcoming transfer window? “We’re analyzing the market, of course — that’s part of any professional club’s cycle. But above all, we fully trust the squad we have right now. These players are committed, improving, and still have plenty of room to grow. We’re planning things calmly and responsibly.” — Vinicius Guelis

✅ Season Snapshot:

League Two: 18th place (17 points from 16 matches)

EFL Trophy: Top of Group B with 2 wins in 2 games

Individual highlights:

Palmer-Houlden – EFL Trophy top scorer (4 goals, 10.0 rating)

Liam Smith & Adam Lewis – Among League Two assist leaders

Fan sentiment: Team has an identity, but inconsistency remains a concern

Squad health: No major injuries; rotation being well managed

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📊 Monthly Summary:

Matches: 7

Wins: 3

Draws: 2

Losses: 2

Goals scored: 13

Goals conceded: 9

📆 November 2023 – Reshaping the Journey

After a rollercoaster October, November marked the beginning of a new phase for Newport County. Vinicius Guelis implemented a significant tactical change, endured painful eliminations, but also witnessed clear signs of evolution — especially in terms of structure, control, and collective identity.

🏆 FA Cup – First Round

🔁 Colchester 1 x 1 Newport
📅 04/11/2023 – JobServe Community Stadium
⚽ Goal: Wildig
Newport took an early lead with Wildig, but conceded in the second half. A solid performance, but missed chances meant the team had to settle for a replay.

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 17

🟢 Newport 2 x 1 MK Dons
📅 07/11/2023 – Rodney Parade
⚽ Goals: Palmer-Houlden, Adam Lewis
A mature and composed performance against one of the league’s toughest sides. Newport took control from start to finish, with the new 4-2-3-1 system working well.

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🏆 EFL Trophy – Group Stage

🔴 Newport 2 x 3 Portsmouth
📅 14/11/2023 – Rodney Parade
⚽ Goals: Palmer-Houlden (2x)
Despite a brace from the striker, Newport couldn’t hold on to the lead. Even with the defeat, the team still finished top of Group B.

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🏆 FA Cup – First Round Replay

🔴 Newport 0 x 1 Colchester
📅 15/11/2023 – Rodney Parade
The FA Cup dream ended at home. Newport dominated possession but lacked penetration in the final third. A late defensive lapse sealed a painful early exit.

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 18

⚖️ Newport 2 x 2 Stockport
📅 25/11/2023 – Rodney Parade
⚽ Goals: Kiban Rai (2x)
Rai’s brace put Newport comfortably ahead by halftime, but the team lost control in the second half and allowed Stockport to equalize — another opportunity missed.

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 19

⚖️ Morecambe 0 x 0 Newport
📅 28/11/2023 – Mazuma Mobile Stadium
A goalless draw on the road, but with a good performance. Newport controlled the game and created clear chances, but lacked precision in front of goal. Guelis described it as a “mature display missing just one detail.”

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🧠 Tactical Shift

Throughout November, Guelis abandoned the traditional 4-4-2 and adopted a 4-2-3-1 tiki-taka setup, aiming for better ball control, fluidity, and compactness. Early signs of adaptation were promising.

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✍️ New Signing

The club signed 34-year-old Senegalese left-back Saliou Ciss on a free transfer. A much-needed addition to the squad, bringing international experience. The move was handled by sporting director Mo Johnston.

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📊 Monthly Summary

🏟️ Matches: 6

✅ Wins: 1

➖ Draws: 3

❌ Losses: 2

⚽ Goals Scored: 7

🧱 Goals Conceded: 9

📈 Season Overview

🏆 League Two: 17th place – 22 points from 18 matches

🏴 FA Cup: Eliminated in the 1st Round (Replay)

🏆 EFL Trophy: Qualified – 1st in Group B (Southern Section)

🌟 Individual Highlights

Palmer-Houlden: continued scoring despite team setbacks

Kiban Rai: took his chances well and netted twice

The squad is embracing tactical changes, though consistency remains a challenge

📆 December 2023 – Gaining Momentum to Close the Year

The final month of 2023 was Newport County’s best of the season so far. With consistent performances across the pitch, Vinicius Guelis' team found rhythm, embraced the new tactical structure, and ended the year full of confidence and belief.

🏆 Bristol Street Motors Trophy – Second Round

🟢 Newport 3 x 1 Reading
📅 06/12/2023 – Rodney Parade
⚽ Goals: Sam Parker (2), Omar Bogle
A dominant performance from start to finish. Youngster Parker stole the show with a brace, while Bogle added his goal to seal a confident progression to the next round.

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 20

🟢 Tranmere 1 x 3 Newport
📅 09/12/2023 – Prenton Park
⚽ Goals: Omar Bogle (3)
Bogle bagged a brilliant hat-trick away from home — even after missing a penalty. A solid and commanding victory that showed Newport’s offensive strength.

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 21

🔴 Mansfield 2 x 1 Newport
📅 12/12/2023 – One Call Stadium
⚽ Goal: Adam Lewis (penalty)
The only defeat of the month. Despite controlling possession, Newport was punished by two quick goals and couldn’t recover in time.

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 22

🟢 Newport 1 x 0 Grimsby
📅 16/12/2023 – Rodney Parade
⚽ Goal: Liam Smith
A tight and hard-fought game, decided by Smith’s accurate finish in the second half. The team showed maturity and discipline to hold the lead.

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 23

🟢 Newport 4 x 1 Accrington
📅 19/12/2023 – Rodney Parade
⚽ Goals: Morris, Wildig, Charsley, Palmer-Houlden
Arguably the best performance of the month. Total control, brilliant goals, and a dominant display from every sector of the pitch.

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 24

🟢 Wrexham 0 x 3 Newport
📅 23/12/2023 – STōK Cae Ras
⚽ Goals: Omar Bogle (3)
Another hat-trick from Bogle and another dominant away performance. Newport was sharp in attack and solid defensively — a complete showing.

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 25

🟢 Newport 2 x 0 Forest Green
📅 26/12/2023 – Rodney Parade
⚽ Goals: Delaney, Morris
On Boxing Day, Newport controlled the game from the first minute and sealed a clean and comfortable victory in front of the home crowd.

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 26

🟢 Newport 2 x 0 Crewe
📅 29/12/2023 – Rodney Parade
⚽ Goals: Adam Lewis, Charsley
Closing the year in style, Newport delivered another confident and dominant performance. The team controlled possession and tempo with ease.

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📊 Monthly Summary

🏟️ Matches: 8

✅ Wins: 7

❌ Losses: 1

⚽ Goals scored: 20

🧱 Goals conceded: 5

📈 Season Overview

🏆 League Two: Significant climb in the standings, entering the playoff race

🏆 EFL Trophy: Qualified for the next round

🔝 Best record in the league for the month

🌟 Individual Highlights

Omar Bogle: Two hat-tricks and the standout name of the month

Sam Parker: Youngster shined in the EFL Trophy

Adam Lewis & Morris: Reliable and effective, especially on set pieces and transitions

Good start so far, but what I think would be better is a screenshot of the actual league at the end of each month.

Other than that mate, this is really good indeed. KUTGW 👍

Thanks 

📆 January 2024 – Big wins, new signings and growing confidence

The year started at full speed for Newport County. With inspired attacking performances, a historic thrashing, and progression in the EFL Trophy, Vinicius Guelis’ team looked increasingly well-coordinated. With smart transfer activity despite limited funds, the fight for the top 6 is officially on.

🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 27

🟢 Sutton 1 x 3 Newport
📅 01/01/2024 – VBS Community Stadium
⚽ Goals: Palmer-Houlden (4’, 39’), Kiban Rai (61’)

The year opened with an assertive away win. Palmer-Houlden scored twice early on, and Rai sealed the result in the second half. A solid and well-managed performance.

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🏆 Bristol Street Motors Trophy – Third Round

🟢 Newport 2 x 1 Wycombe
📅 09/01/2024 – Rodney Parade
⚽ Goals: Palmer-Houlden (46’, 69’)

After going behind, Newport responded brilliantly. Palmer-Houlden turned the match around with a brace, securing a place in the quarterfinals with another dominant offensive showing.

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 28

⚖️ Doncaster 1 x 1 Newport
📅 13/01/2024 – Eco-Power Stadium
⚽ Goal: Palmer-Houlden (21’)

A frustrating draw. Newport had twice as many chances and dictated the tempo, but paid the price for not finishing the game off. A rare defensive slip cost the win.

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 29

🟢 Newport 3 x 0 Wrexham
📅 20/01/2024 – Rodney Parade
⚽ Goals: Parker (57’), Charsley (76’), Palmer-Houlden (78’)

In the Welsh derby, Newport delivered a statement performance. From start to finish, the team dominated with control, intensity and variety in attack. One of the season’s best showings.

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 30

🔴 Harrogate 1 x 0 Newport
📅 26/01/2024 – EnviroVent Stadium

The unbeaten run ended in a match where Newport played well, but couldn’t convert their chances. The hosts scored late and punished a lack of efficiency in the final third.

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🏆 Bristol Street Motors Trophy – Quarter-Final

🟢 Stockport 3 x 9 Newport
📅 31/01/2024 – Edgeley Park
⚽ Goals: Evans (13’), Adam Lewis (15’), Palmer-Houlden (22’, 36’, 81’, 87’, 90’), Waite (25’), James (68’)

Simply historic. Newport produced one of the biggest wins in recent memory with an offensive masterclass. Palmer-Houlden scored five goals, and the team was ruthless from the very first minute.

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✍️ New Signings

Cameron Congreve (AMC, 19 years old) arrived on loan from Swansea. A creative midfielder with good technique and movement.

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Kamil Jóźwiak (winger, 25 years old) had been signed in December and was finally registered. He made a solid debut this month.

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💰 Financial Situation

Overall balance: £-383k

Transfer budget: £903

Financial Fair Play: compliant
Despite limited resources, the club remains financially responsible and within regulations.

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📊 Monthly Summary (All Competitions)

Matches: 6

Wins: 4

Draws: 1

Losses: 1

Goals scored: 21

Goals conceded: 7

📈 Season Overview

League Two: 7th place – 49 points from 30 matches

EFL Trophy: Qualified for the semifinal

FA Cup: Eliminated in the 1st round

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🌟 Individual Highlights

Seb Palmer-Houlden: Scored a stunning 9 goals in 6 matches

Waite & Adam Lewis: Key figures in build-up play and set-pieces

Sam Parker: Found form and became a regular starter

📆 February 2024 – Guelis' men fire into top 6

February marked Newport County’s best run of the season so far. With dominant performances, convincing wins, and a team increasingly synced to Vinicius Guelis’ tactical identity, the climb into the League Two top six came with authority — and attacking flair.

🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 31

🟢 Newport 2 x 0 Swindon
📅 03/02/2024 – Rodney Parade
⚽ Goals: Palmer-Houlden (30’), Clarke (90+3’)

With less possession but great efficiency, Newport was clinical. Palmer-Houlden opened the scoring with a composed finish, and Clarke sealed the win in stoppage time. A mature victory.

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 32

🔴 Walsall 1 x 0 Newport
📅 10/02/2024 – Poundland Bescot Stadium
⚽ Goal: Earing (6’)

A frustrating match. Newport had twice as many shots and dominated possession, but was punished by an early goal and couldn’t find the net despite their control.

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 33

🟢 Newport 4 x 0 Notts County
📅 13/02/2024 – Rodney Parade
⚽ Goals: Jóźwiak (41’), Waite (58’), Palmer-Houlden (76’), Bogle (90’)

One of the most dominant performances of the season. Newport controlled every aspect of the game and cruised to a four-goal win with an outstanding display from the attacking trio.

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 34

🟢 Newport 6 x 1 Gillingham
📅 17/02/2024 – Rodney Parade
⚽ Goals: Ciss (5’), Palmer-Houlden (46’), own goal (47’), Waite (64’), Bogle (90’), Jóźwiak (90+3’)

Total demolition. After conceding early, Newport turned it around before halftime and ran riot. The team’s attacking movement and intensity overwhelmed the opposition.

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 35

🟡 Newport 1 x 1 Morecambe
📅 20/02/2024 – Rodney Parade
⚽ Goal: McLoughlin (22’)

Another game where the scoreline didn’t reflect the performance. Newport dominated, created the best chances, and had superior numbers across the board but was held to a draw.

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 36

🟢 MK Dons 2 x 4 Newport
📅 24/02/2024 – Stadium MK
⚽ Goals: Palmer-Houlden (7’, 47’, 77’), Adam Lewis (45’)

A big game, a huge performance. Palmer-Houlden bagged a hat-trick and the team showed great cohesion and deadly counter-attacks. A massive win against a direct playoff rival.

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🧠 Training Highlights

James Waite stood out in training with a 9.30 rating, followed by Palmer-Houlden (8.25) and Will Evans (8.20). The team remains at “Excellent” familiarity with the 4-2-3-1 Tiki-taka setup — a clear sign of tactical maturity under Guelis.

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💰 Financial Situation

Despite a negative balance (£333k), the club remains compliant with Financial Fair Play regulations. Wage budget is under control, and there were no injuries or new signings during the month.

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🧮 Monthly Summary (all competitions):

Matches: 6

Wins: 4

Draws: 1

Losses: 1

Goals Scored: 17

Goals Conceded: 5

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📊 Season Overview:

🏆 League Two: 6th place – 60 points after 36 matches

🏆 FA Cup: Eliminated in 1st Round (replay)

🏆 Carabao Cup: Eliminated in 3rd Round

🏆 EFL Trophy: Qualified for the Semifinal

Is the posting pace too high? Or is it okay?

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📆 March 2024

📌 No new signings or injuries in the squad during the month.
🔧 The team continues with the 4-2-3-1 Tiki-taka system, with tactical familiarity still at an Excellent level.
📊 James Waite was once again the training standout, scoring 9.30, followed by Seb Palmer-Houlden (8.25) and Will Evans (8.25).

📊 Match Results

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 36

🟢 Newport 2 x 0 Mansfield
📅 02/03/2024 – Rodney Parade
⚽ Goals: Kamil Jóźwiak (1’), Adam Lewis (67’ – penalty)

A solid and comfortable performance. Newport took the lead within the first minute through Jóźwiak and remained in control throughout. Adam Lewis doubled the lead from the spot to secure the three points at home.

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 37

🔴 Stockport 3 x 2 Newport
📅 09/03/2024 – Edgeley Park
⚽ Goals: Charsley (37’), Palmer-Houlden (47’)

A thrilling match between two of the league's top sides. Newport had more chances and a higher xG, but Stockport was clinical and took their chances well.

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🏆 EFL Trophy – Semi-Final

🟢 Newport 1 x 0 Charlton
📅 12/03/2024 – Rodney Parade
⚽ Goal: Kamil Jóźwiak (7’)

Despite an underwhelming performance, Newport booked their place in the final. A quick goal and a solid defensive display were enough. Wembley awaits!

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 38

🔴 AFC Wimbledon 3 x 2 Newport
📅 16/03/2024 – Cherry Red Records Stadium
⚽ Goals: Kamil Jóźwiak (22’), Wildig (59’)

Another promising attacking display that didn’t result in a win. The opponents capitalized on set pieces and counterattacks to edge the result.

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 39

🟡 Barrow 2 x 2 Newport
📅 23/03/2024 – SO Legal Stadium
⚽ Goals: Adam Lewis (23’), James Waite (56’)

A tightly contested game from start to finish. Newport took the lead, but Barrow showed resilience and fought back. A fair draw on a day of good football.

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 40

🟢 Colchester 2 x 3 Newport
📅 29/03/2024 – JobServe Community Stadium
⚽ Goals: Liam Smith (52’), Palmer-Houlden (62’), Chris Beattie (79’)

What a comeback! After a slow first half, Newport responded with character. Youngster Chris Beattie was the hero, scoring the winner in his first ever start.

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📈 League Table – Sky Bet League Two

📊 After 41 rounds, Newport sits in 6th place with 69 points, inside the playoff zone.
🎯 The team remains firmly in the hunt for an automatic promotion spot, just 5 points behind 3rd-placed Grimsby.

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📆 April 2024

📌 No new signings or injuries during the month.
🔧 The team maintained the Tikitaka 4-2-3-1 system, with tactical familiarity still at Excellent level.
📊 Djigui Diarra was the training standout with a score of 8.70, followed by Lewis Payne (8.50) and Declan Drysdale (8.50).

📊 Match Results

🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 41

🟡 Newport 1 x 1 Crawley
📅 01/04/2024 – Rodney Parade
⚽ Goal: Drysdale (90+1’)

Newport rescued a point in stoppage time in a match where they dominated the xG but struggled to break down the opposition. Drysdale headed in the equalizer to avoid defeat at home.

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🏆 EFL Trophy – Final

🔴 Lincoln 1 x 0 Newport
📅 07/04/2024 – Wembley

A disappointing final. Despite a balanced performance, Newport failed to convert their chances. Lincoln scored in the second half to take the EFL Trophy title.

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 42

🟢 Newport 1 x 0 Tranmere
📅 13/04/2024 – Rodney Parade
⚽ Goal: Delaney (90+3’)

Dramatic match decided in added time! Down to ten men since the first half, Newport held on and secured the win late through a clutch goal by Ryan Delaney.

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 43

🟢 Grimsby 0 x 2 Newport
📅 16/04/2024 – Blundell Park
⚽ Goals: Bryn Morris (63’), Palmer-Houlden (67’)

A big performance away from home. Against a direct rival, Newport was calm and clinical. Two goals in four minutes killed the game and kept the team firmly in the top four.

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 44

🟢 Newport 5 x 0 Salford
📅 20/04/2024 – Rodney Parade
⚽ Goals: Jóźwiak (11’), Smith (17’), Drysdale (32’), Bogle (72’, 90+2’)

A dazzling display! Newport crushed Salford with attacking volume, constant movement, and technical dominance. Bogle came off the bench to score a brace and steal the spotlight.

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Matchday 45

🟢 Bradford City 0 x 1 Newport
📅 27/04/2024 – University of Bradford Stadium
⚽ Goal: Palmer-Houlden (49’)

A composed performance on the road. Newport controlled the game statistically and built the win with patience and maturity. Palmer-Houlden scored again, continuing his fine form.

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📈 Sky Bet League Two – Standings

📊 After 46 rounds, Newport County sit in 4th place with 82 points, securing a spot in the promotion playoffs.
📉 The team finished just one point behind 3rd-placed MK Dons, narrowly missing out on automatic promotion.

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"Good, my friend, greetings from Brazil!"

Thanks my friend.

📆 May 2024

📌 Newport County secured promotion to Sky Bet League One after defeating Grimsby in the playoff final.
🔧 The team maintained the tiki-taka 4-2-3-1 setup with tactical familiarity at Excellent level.
📊 Goalkeeper Djigui Diarra was the standout in training with a rating of 8.70.

📊 Match Results

🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Playoffs (Semi-final – First Leg)

🟢 Mansfield 1 x 5 Newport
📅 09/05/2024 – One Call Stadium
⚽ Goals: Will Evans (39’, 63’), Palmer-Houlden (45+3’, 90+3’), Jóźwiak (90+6’)

An unforgettable away performance! Newport dominated the game and crushed Mansfield with five goals. Beattie and Evans led the creative sector brilliantly.

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Playoffs (Semi-final – Second Leg)

🟡 Newport 3 x 3 Mansfield
📅 12/05/2024 – Rodney Parade
⚽ Goals: Bogle (29’, 86’), Waite (45’)

Already holding a strong lead, Newport still played assertively and sealed qualification for the final. A composed performance with two goals from Bogle and a key finish from Waite.

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🏆 Sky Bet League Two – Playoffs (Final)

🟢 Newport 3 x 1 Grimsby
📅 19/05/2024 – Wembley Stadium
⚽ Goals: Palmer-Houlden (33’, 58’), Adam Lewis (51’ – pen)

In front of nearly 52,000 fans at Wembley, Newport wrote a golden chapter in its history. Palmer-Houlden struck twice, and Lewis converted a penalty to confirm promotion in style.

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📈 Final League Two Standings

📊 Newport finished the season in 4th place with 84 points, earning promotion via the playoffs.
🥉 The team finished behind MK Dons, Colchester, and champions Stockport.

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🏆 End-of-Season Awards

🎯 League Two Top Scorer
Seb Palmer-Houlden claimed the Golden Boot with 25 goals, edging out Francis Okoronkwo and Isaac Olaofe due to fewer appearances.

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🌟 League Two Team of the Season
Palmer-Houlden was Newport’s sole representative in the PFA Team of the Year.

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🥇 Manager of the Year – Vinicius Guelis
After an outstanding campaign, Vinicius Guelis was named Sky Bet League Two Manager of the Year for 2023/24.

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🖊️ Contract Renewal
With his great impact at the club, Vinicius Guelis signed a new deal, extending his contract until June 2025.

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🏛️ Club Takeover Talks Begin
Behind the scenes, Newport has entered a club acquisition process. Director Josh Bacon is reported to be the frontrunner to become chairman, with the major task of stabilizing the club’s financial future.

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⚫🟡 New shirt, same soul: Newport unveils its new armor for the 2024/25 season

Newport, Wales – There’s something magical about kit unveiling days. It’s more than fabric, more than design. It’s the quiet announcement of a new era, a sign that time has turned once again, and that it’s time to write a new chapter. And at Rodney Parade, on this cloudy summer morning, Newport County revealed its new armor for the 2024/25 season.

With a sleek, modern cut, the kit retains the club’s historic colors — vibrant gold and bold black — now featuring subtle white details that reflect the club’s pursuit of balance and maturity. The traditional vertical band has been redesigned with cleaner lines, symbolizing the club’s evolution into a more structured, professional, and ambitious phase.

But it’s not just about the design. The shirt now carries the logo of a new sponsor: Starling Bank, who have signed a £25,000 one-year deal — a modest amount by modern standards, but a significant step for a club operating with financial discipline and Fair Play in mind. The discreet logo across the chest represents not only market confidence in the project led by Vinicius Guelis, but also a breath of fresh financial air.

The matchday kit was presented by newly-appointed captain Zane Monlouis, who posed alongside head coach Guelis and the most talked-about signing of the window, goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo. In the stands, fans softly hummed a familiar tune: “We’re Exiles, we’re proud.” Because they know — this shirt doesn’t just represent the club. It represents the city, the history, the hard-earned climb.

Vinicius Guelis spoke briefly to the press:

“The Newport shirt has always been heavy. This one will fly. We’ve got a young, vibrant squad, and this season will be about identity. We’re ready.”

With the spotlight now shining on League One, Newport steps forward not only with a new kit, but with a renewed ambition.

And at the end of the day, that’s what every kit truly is: dreams stitched into every seam.

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📆 July 2024 – A Summer of Rebuild and New Ideas

July was a month of transition, trials, and early glimpses into what could become a promising season in League One. With the departure of some key names and the board's financial restraint, Newport County focused on smart recruitment and squad depth — and above all, reaffirmed its tactical identity under Vinicius Guelis.

🧤 Main Signing: Arthur Okonkwo arrives to lead from the back

The most celebrated move of the summer was the arrival of Arthur Okonkwo, a towering 1.99m goalkeeper, who signed for free after his contract expired. Agile, brave, and with Premier League-level reflexes, Okonkwo comes in as the undisputed starter and adds experience and reliability to a squad in need of leadership at the back. His commanding presence has already been felt in training sessions.

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🧩 Tactical Adaptation, Same Identity

Vinicius Guelis kept faith in the Tiki-Taka 4-2-3-1, but the summer brought signs of subtle tactical evolution. The presence of new players like Ben Lloyd and James Olayinka gives the manager more versatility in central midfield — allowing for rotations between positional play and transitional control.

Zane Monlouis and Filip Lissah emerged as possible centre-back starters, both with good ball-playing attributes, reinforcing the idea of building from the back.

🧠 New Faces, New Dynamics

Ben Lloyd (loan from Swansea) – young, technical, and bold, he's a great option for the number 10 role or as a right central midfielder.

Filip Lissah (loan from Swansea) – 19, solid in duels and confident in passing. Could challenge the defensive hierarchy.

Harry Anderson (free agent) – experienced winger who brings depth, versatility, and a good engine.

James Olayinka (signed for £82K) – quality in transitions and tactical intelligence. A great fit for the second phase of play.

Sammy Braybrooke (loan from Leicester) – another piece in the midfield jigsaw. Intelligent, quick in distribution, and tactically disciplined.

Zane Monlouis (loan extended from Arsenal) – already integrated, will likely wear the armband this season.

Meanwhile, the loans of Lewis Payne (Southampton) and Seb Palmer-Houlden (Bristol City) were renewed — two key pillars from the League Two campaign.

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⚽ Pre-season friendlies – ups and downs at Rodney Parade

🏆 Friendly

🔴 Newport 2 x 3 Cardiff
📅 04/07/2024 – Rodney Parade
⚽ Goals: Beattie (27’), Sam Bowen (52’)

An intense first test. Cardiff were more clinical despite Newport’s offensive drive. Some defensive adjustments were already on Guelis' radar after the final whistle.

🏆 Friendly

🔴 Newport 0 x 2 Aston Villa
📅 11/07/2024 – Rodney Parade
⚠️ Missed penalty: Palmer-Houlden (90+4’)
🟥 Red card: Ryan Williams (89’)

A Premier League-level challenge. Newport showed energy but lacked sharpness. Villa punished errors, and Williams' late red card capped a tough night.

🏆 Friendly

🟡 Newport 0 x 0 Bristol Rovers
📅 18/07/2024 – Rodney Parade
📋 xG: Newport 3.56 – Rovers 0.87

One-sided domination. Newport created 24 shots and controlled possession but couldn’t find the net. A great performance – just missing the finish.

🏆 Friendly

🟢 Newport 3 x 2 Brighton
📅 27/07/2024 – Rodney Parade
⚽ Goals: Ryan Williams (56’), Beattie (60’), Palmer-Houlden (76’)

A stunning comeback win against a Premier League side. After trailing 0-2, Guelis' tactical tweaks flipped the script. Energy, precision, and a statement victory to close the month.

📌 Despite inconsistent results, Newport left July with a clear identity and a sense of growth. New players integrated well, the tactical base held firm, and fans began to dream again.

The storm is past. The squad is assembled. And under the summer sky, Rodney Parade waits — ready for another season to unfold.

Next stop: League One.
Let the story begin. 🟡⚫️