Matheus Nunes seems to be making a case for why he should be a starter for Manchester City after he impressed in their 1-0 win against Southampton.
Ederson and Savinho praised Nunes as he assisted Erling Haaland’s one and only goal against Russell Martins’ side.
Pep Guardiola named himself as Matheus Nunes’ “problem” at Manchester City for not starting him more often.
However, Guardiola discussed how versatile the former Wolves midfielder is — as indicated by the Catalan boss trusting him to do a job on the left-wing against Southampton.
The Portuguese international has spent a majority of his career as a central midfielder.
But with Jeremy Doku and Jack Grealish both out injured, Nunes could potentially cement his place as Manchester City’s first-choice left-winger if he remains consistent.
- Who is Matheus Nunes? Get to know the midfielder
Pep Guardiola hails Matheus Nunes’ left-wing display vs Southampton
When the former Wolves speedster was taken off in place of Ilkay Gundogan in the 86th minute, the home fans at the Etihad Stadium were audibly clapping and cheering for the former due to how he fared.
It was reported in the summer that Nunes snubbed Atletico Madrid’s interest and his focus was to stay at Manchester City to fight for his place.
Nunes’ resilience seems to be getting rewarded, with Pep Guardiola praising his display as a left-winger in Manchester City’s latest victory against Southampton.
Guardiola said via BBC Sport: “Really good. Savinho was created all the chances, right to left. I would say really good. And Matheus [Nunes] is not in a position that is not his natural position again so offensively and defensively, make another assist. He played really good.”
Pep Guardiola seems to be satisfied with Nunes and Savinho as his wing pairing based on his assessment.
The Portuguese international will be delighted to hear Guardiola’s praise for him.
How Pep Guardiola privately feels about Nunes
In June, Pep Guardiola’s internal feelings about Nunes came to light.
Journalist Ben Jacobs revealed that the versatile midfielder seemed unlikely to leave Manchester City in the summer, with Guardiola being an admirer of his.
“I think from Pep’s [Guardiola] point of view, he’s still a long-term admirer. I would lean more towards him staying, barring an astronomical offer.”
“It can be difficult to really settle at Manchester City. We saw it with Jack Grealish, I don’t think he hit the ground running. A lot of fans felt that he was replaceable, even now there is talk he might exit.”
“But Pep Guardiola has stayed loyal and Nunes falls into that category.”
Nunes seems to be justifying why Guardiola sees a player in him with his brilliant displays against Sparta Prague and Southampton.
Pep Guardiola could also consider the 26-year-old as a tactical wildcard that other teams might not know how to counter due to him playing in a completely different position this season.
