Manchester City's boss, Pep Guardiola, did not hold back after his side's dull draw against Manchester United in the 2024-25 Premier League campaign. Although the match itself was a bit of a dud, with City holding more than three-quarters of possession but failing to muster any really decent chances, Guardiola's words on midfielder Matheus Nunes were what made headlines.".
In a post-match interview, Guardiola was asked about Nunes' contribution during the game. The Portuguese midfielder, who normally plays in central midfield, instead played as the right-back facing United. Guardiola was hasty to compliment Nunes' stature but gave straight criticism of how he played out in midfield.
"I think he's not clever enough to play in midfield," Guardiola said, going on to single out Nunes for praise as a full-back. "He can be a fine right back with his physicality. Fullbacks always make such a big error with crosses to the far post—they're always sleeping. He defended really, really well on two or three of those, like the ones Bruno (Fernandes) crossed. He can play that position. He helps us a lot."
Struggles of City in the Last Third
Manchester City had the possession of the game at their command, but the inability of theirs to convert possession control into scoring opportunities was the recurring motif. Despite having command over the midfield and holding United attackers at least under some leash, the visitors failed to fashion clear-cut chances.
Guardiola's tactical decisions, including the experiment with Nunes at right back, were all part of a larger effort to attempt to break through the challenges of facing a solid United defense. However, as Guardiola himself pointed out, the inability to deliver precision in the final third of the pitch ultimately proved costly for City in their quest for victory.
Nunes' Role in City's Lineup
Matheus Nunes, who joined from Wolverhampton Wanderers, has been primarily used as a midfielder. Guardiola's employment of him at right-back in this match, however, demonstrated the tactician's adaptability to use players based on the tactical requirements of the match. Guardiola's words suggest Nunes, learning how to play as a full-back, has potential as a full-back, especially because of his physicality and defensive abilities.
A Need for Improvement
This outcome, a draw at Old Trafford without a single goal, further highlighted City's continued inability to establish rhythm within their attack. With the club still vying for a spot in the Champions League, Guardiola will inevitably be focusing on improving both tactics and personnel selections throughout the campaign. As regards Nunes, the future of this player at City seems increasingly expansive than initially imagined, with there being potential to increase his usage beyond midfield.
Guardiola's bold approach
Guardiola's candid remarks about Nunes are not the first time the City manager openly assessed his players. Renowned for his high expectations, Guardiola's approach to building players often involves giving honest feedback. While his criticism of Nunes was biting, it also shows how much Guardiola expects from his team, particularly in terms of intelligence and decision-making in key positions.
While City prepare for their next games, Guardiola will undoubtedly continue to experiment with his team in a bid to strengthen the vulnerable areas that were laid bare against Manchester United. Nunes, on the other hand, it is almost certain that he will have to adjust his tactical acumen if he is to become a regular in City's midfield.
