Manchester City are back in the top four of the Premier League after running out 2-0 winners over Everton on Saturday.
The Citizens struggled to break down a resolute Toffees defence for much of the game but they eventually got their just rewards.
Nico O’Reilly struck in the last 10 minutes when he snuck into the box and slammed home following Matheus Nunes’ cross from the by-line.
Jeremy Doku and Ilkay Gundogan then combined superbly to set up Mateo Kovacic who slid home from just inside the box to make it 2-0 in injury time.
In terms of individual performances, it was a mixed bag, but Nunes was one of the players who received high praise from Manchester City fans.
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Manchester City fans eager to give Matheus Nunes his flowers
Nunes has come under criticism at times in recent months, but fans were eager to sing his praises during and after the Everton game.
“Matheus Nunes should be getting all the love today,” one fan wrote on X.
Another said: “Jeremy Doku, yes, but Matheus Nunes doesn’t get the flowers he deserves.
“Can’t remember the last time he had a bad game at right-back. Brilliant performances. The rest he’s had has massively helped too, giving him a proper breather.”
The praise kept coming, with one fan saying: “Props to Matheus Nunes.
“Kind of become one of the faces of the squad’s struggles this season but I feel he’s actually become quite solid since acclimating to playing RB full-time. Deserved his assist today.”
Another said: “I would 100% keep Matheus Nunes btw.
“Been thrown under the bus by the manager, has had a couple shaky moments, hated on by fans but he clearly loves playing for the club in a team where some players look unbothered, gives 100% and has really found his feet at right back.”
Another said: “I f—— love Matheus Nunes man. That guy works hard, he doesn’t complain.
“It’s sooooo annoying because he does have a mistake in him but the guy once again is getting assists when needed and he’s constantly up and down the pitch.”
How Matheus Nunes fared against Everton
Everton sought to target Nunes down the right-hand side but he dealt with most of what the Toffees threw at him.
Along with his assist, Nunes had a shot on target, forcing Jordan Pickford into a save, and delivered two long balls to his teammates.
| Matheus Nunes stats v Everton | |
| Touches | 84 |
| Accurate passes | 68/73 (93%) |
| Key passes | 1 |
| Long balls (acc.) | 3 (2) |
| Big chances created | 1 |
| Shots on target | 1 |
Nunes may have received criticism at times, particularly in the Manchester derby at the Etihad, but he’s working hard for the cause and it’s good to see him get his flowers today.
