Former Manchester City goalkeeper David James has praised Matheus Nunes following his debut against West Ham United.
The 24-year-old was named on the bench again, but was handed around half an hour in the second half.
Some wondered if Nunes might have started yesterday’s game.
Mateo Kovacic picked up an injury on international duty, and Nunes is obviously a central player.
But Pep Guardiola opted to go with Rodri and Bernardo Silva has a pairing, with Julian Alvarez playing more advanced.
But Nunes did well when he came on – and the Portuguese has come in for praise from James.
David James praises Matheus Nunes after his debut against West Ham United
James was speaking on City’s Matchday Live coverage of the game.
James was left impressed by Nunes, and believes his introduction did ultimately help City to actually win the game.
He said (via Man City official YouTube): “We were saying watching that second-half, he just looked like he’s been there for ages.
“And he came on at 1-1. It’s interesting because Phil Foden came off, and he’s a player you’d think you’d want on. Nunes comes on and fits in, as you said, seamlessly. And Man City create more chances and score two goals. (It) says a lot.”
A bright cameo from Nunes on debut for Manchester City vs West Ham
Nunes wasn’t on for too long but he did well and certainly didn’t look out of place.
Guardiola made some interesting comments about him leading up to the game. The Spaniard had suggested that his touch needed to improve going forwards.
But it looked pretty good against West Ham, and the £53 million signing is surely going to play an important part for City this season.
Kovacic didn’t have the greatest injury record at Chelsea and he has now picked up an early setback at City.
So Nunes could be seeing a fair amount of game time.
