£53m Man City midfielder impressed in ‘different’ role for his country last night
One Manchester City player seriously impressed his international boss in action on Thursday night.
16 of Manchester City’s squad members have jetted off around the world to represent their countries during this week’s international break.
As ever, Pep Guardiola’s strong Portuguese contingent linked up with the squad and all three of Bernardo Silva, Ruben Dias and Matheus Nunes started in the friendly against Sweden.
Roberto Martinez’s side ran out comfortable 5-2 winners, with Bernardo again shining as he set up the first two goals.
But it was Nunes who really caught the eye, earning positive reviews from the Portuguese press.
The midfielder was picking up his first cap since December 2022 and scored the second with a driving run from deep and a powerful finish into the bottom corner.
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Martinez was also left impressed and enjoyed Nunes’ performance in a new all-action central role where he could use his physicality.
Matheus Nunes celebrates his goal.
Photo by Pedro Loureiro/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images
Roberton Martinez praises Matheus Nunes
Speaking to O Jogo, Martinez said: “It was important to see Matheus Nunes in a formation with experienced players.
“He had the opportunity to be a different midfielder.
“Matheus has physical capacity and is at an important level.
“I think he was focused, performed well, but he showed that he has different skills than other midfielders.”
A big confidence boost for Matheus Nunes
Hopefully, the high praise from his manager after a promising performance will give Nunes a massive confidence boost.
The £53m man had a promising start to life at City with some early strong displays but hasn’t had many chances on the pitch as of late.
Nunes has made just three appearances in the Premier League in 2024 and clearly isn’t in Guardiola’s strongest side.
But if he can show his skills in a central position, both defensively and offensively, he could earn himself a chance given Kevin De Bruyne’s injury and Julian Alvarez’s poor form.
Though Bernardo and Dias have been sent home from the squad ahead of a friendly with Slovenia on Tuesday, Nunes has remained and will be hoping he gets another chance to show out.
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