Manchester City are not in a good way right now, having gone six games without a win.
Last night in the Champions League, City squandered a three-goal lead against Feyenoord to draw 3-3, which came hot on the heels of losing 4-0 to Tottenham Hotspur last weekend.
Manchester City fans have been alarmed watching the last few weeks unfold.
One of the biggest concerns has been the midfield, with there appearing to be a lack of dynamism.
Ilkay Gundogan and Bernardo Silva don’t have the legs to prevent counter-attacks, and there have been calls for Matheus Nunes to be used centrally.
But currently, there is a case for Nunes to be put anywhere just so long as he’s actually playing – and one statistic has now further suggested why he should be playing regularly.
Matheus Nunes has created most big chances in the Champions League
It’s been reported by WhoScored that Nunes is currently the player with the most ‘big’ chances created in the Champions League so far.
Nunes has created five, with three of those being converted by teammates. It’s a statistic that Kevin De Bruyne – arguably one of the greatest playmaker’s of al-time – would probably be fairly proud of
Last night against Feyenoord, he was a small positive for City given the circumstances. The Portugal international played a full game, and was lively throughout.
He occasionally cropped up on the right wing, but spent most of his time playing as right-sided number eight.
Towards the end of the game, he was mainly operating in the Rodri position.
His assist for Haaland was great, and it took his goal contributions tally to eight for the season – only City’s number nine has more.
- Who is Matheus Nunes? Get to know the midfielder
Nunes must start in midfield at Anfield
Nunes has probably been one of City’s best performers this season.
Despite limited game time at the beginning, he’s laid on eight goal contributions so far and is clearly a creative player, as evidenced by the big chances created statistic.
It’s Liverpool this weekend for City and Pep Guardiola simply must start Nunes in midfield.
| Matheus Nunes for Man City this season |
| Appearances – 15 |
| Minutes played – 858 |
| Goals – 3 |
| Assists – 5 |
The Manchester City manager has watched his side get sliced open with ease this month and he needs someone in the engine room with legs.
Nunes is an athlete. He is much more mobile than the likes of Mateo Kovacic, Gundogan and Bernardo, and it’s paramount he operates centrally.
Liverpool could well have a field day without Nunes’ athleticism and dynamism. But there’s also a need for his creativity.
