Nunes' Position Change Pays Off for Manchester City
 |
| Matheus Nunes, from midfielder to full-back sensation |
Matheus Nunes has transformed from a ball-carrying midfielder to a top-class full-back, becoming a key player for Manchester City and a contender for Portugal's 2026 World Cup squad.
Nunes' inconsistency and lack of tactical awareness meant he couldn't establish himself in Guardiola's system...
Matheus Nunes has evolved from a ball-carrying midfielder to a top-class full-back, and he's now a key player for Manchester City. His transformation is a testament to his adaptability and hard work, and it's caught the attention of Portugal's coach, Roberto MartÃnez.
The 26-year-old's impressive performances have led to speculation that he's a shoe-in for Portugal's 2026 World Cup squad. As one coach put it, “Matheus Nunes is one of the best players in the world” - high praise for a player who's reinvented himself.
Pep Guardiola was already singing Matheus Nunes' praises back in 2022, after Manchester City's 5-0 thrashing of Sporting. The Catalan coach had his sights set on the Portuguese international, and he eventually brought him to the Etihad Stadium. However, Nunes struggled to make an impact initially, failing to convince Guardiola with his performances in midfield.
Nunes' inconsistency and lack of tactical awareness meant he couldn't establish himself in Guardiola's system, despite a standout season with Wolves. But the coaches saw something in him that he perhaps didn't see in himself - potential for something more. And that something was playing at full-back.
Nunes' Challenging Adaptation to Full-Back Role
Matheus Nunes faced a tough transition to full-back, taking on the right-back role for Manchester City after being a secondary figure in Pep Guardiola's squad. The position had been a source of problems for City, but Guardiola saw potential in Nunes.
Guardiola's Faith in Nunes' Potential
Despite some erratic performances and costly mistakes, Guardiola continued to back Nunes as a full-back capable of making a difference. The Catalan coach's faith is paying off, with Nunes establishing himself as a key player.
“He can be an incredible right-back because he’s a defensive midfielder with extraordinary physical ability (...) Now, it’s up to him. We talk about it a lot. It’s just a matter of changing his mindset and believing he can do it, because he has the special attributes to play out wide,” he said earlier this season.
Nunes has evolved into the perfect full-back for Manchester City's style, focusing on possession and building from the back. He's no longer the box-to-box midfielder he once was, but that's allowed him to thrive in his new role.
Guardiola's decision to switch him to full-back has paid off, with Nunes becoming a key player for City. His new role has brought out a different side to his game, and he's exceling in it.
Nunes Flourishes in New Role
Matheus Nunes has taken to the right-back position like a pro, becoming one of Manchester City's key players. He's already surpassed his previous Premier League starts, and the numbers are backing up Pep Guardiola's decision to switch him to full-back.
Stats Prove Nunes' Impact
The stats are clear: Nunes is thriving in his new role. His performances have been impressive, and he's become a vital part of City's lineup. Guardiola's faith in him is looking justified.
Matheus Nunes is leading the charge for Manchester City, topping the team's touches in the Premier League with 1,931. He's the ultimate full-back with midfielder roots, thriving in a role that lets him carry and build from deep.
Matheus Nunes is crushing it for Manchester City, leading the team in ball recoveries with 120 and ranking second in successful passes with 1,287. He's also third in duels won with 107, just behind Jeremy Doku (115) and Nico O'Reilly (121).
But here's the thing: his real game-changer is the number of successful passes ending in the final third - 377, the best mark at Manchester City, even ahead of Bernardo Silva. That's some next-level playmaking right there.
Nunes' High-Risk, High-Reward Game
Matheus Nunes is playing with fire for Manchester City, leading the team in misplaced passes (162) and times losing possession (264). It's a reflection of his tendency to drift inside, take on pressure, and push the pace with carries and vertical passes.
Aggressive Style Shows in Stats
His numbers show a player who's not afraid to take risks. The 17 completed dribbles (fifth best in the squad) highlight his midfielder roots, even in a full-back role. It's a high-risk, high-reward approach that's working for City.
Nunes Aiming for World Cup Breakthrough
Matheus Nunes needs to cement his spot with Portugal's national team, having earned 17 caps but started just two official matches. He's yet to start under Roberto MartÃnez, used only once since EURO 2024 in a World Cup qualifier.
Can He Secure a Starting Role?
A strong season with Manchester City could push his case for a starting spot. The 2026 World Cup is on the horizon, and Nunes will be looking to make his mark.
Portugal's tactics have shifted, with Joao Neves playing right-back in the Nations League. This opens up a spot for a hybrid player like Matheus Nunes, who fits the bill as a full-back with midfielder DNA.
Tough Competition Awaits
But he'll have to beat out Joao Cancelo, Diogo Dalot, and Nelson Semedo for the spot. Nunes has just 17 minutes of experience as a right-back for Portugal, so it's a challenging road ahead.
Nunes' Premier League Form Boosts Portugal Chances
Matheus Nunes' impressive performances in the Premier League put him in contention for a Portugal squad place and even a starting spot. He's thrived in a demanding environment, proving his adaptability.
Adaptation Exceeds Expectations
Nunes accepted the position change “after listening to a lot of people and talking to the psychologist.” His growth as a full-back has exceeded expectations, and he's reaping the rewards.
No comments:
Leave comment here