The Guardiola Seal of Approval
When Pep Guardiola called Matheus Nunes “one of the best players in the world” in early 2023, it wasn’t just praise—it was a prophecy. The Manchester City manager has long admired the Portuguese midfielder, and after a £38m move to Wolves, Nunes showed flashes of brilliance that justified Guardiola’s faith. His stunning strike against Chelsea last April, a contender for Premier League Goal of the Season, was a reminder of his raw talent.
Yet, Nunes’ time at Wolves has been a puzzle. With just one goal and one assist in the league, his output doesn’t match his potential. So why is Guardiola, a manager known for transforming players, still keen? The answer lies in Nunes’ unique skill set—and the belief that City’s system could be the missing piece.
The Wolves Conundrum: A Midfielder Without a Role
Since arriving at Molineux, Nunes has been a square peg in a round hole. Bruno Lage initially saw him as a deep-lying playmaker, replicating his Sporting CP partnership with João Palhinha. But Wolves’ midfield dynamics—built around Ruben Neves and João Moutinho—left Nunes adrift.
Interim boss Steve Davis tried pushing him higher, saying: “He’s better being loose in advanced positions.” Yet, this robbed Nunes of the space he thrives in. Julen Lopetegui later deployed him as a hybrid winger-midfielder, a role that showcased his dribbling but limited his influence.
Key Stats: What Makes Nunes Special?
- Ball progression: Nunes is among the Premier League’s top midfielders for carries (500+ meters this season).
- Dribbling: He leads the league in take-ons (19 in two games) and multiple take-ons (6).
- Versatility: Used on both wings and centrally, but consistency remains elusive.
Why Guardiola Wants Him: The City Blueprint
At Manchester City, Nunes wouldn’t need to be a goalscorer. Guardiola’s system prioritizes control and progression—areas where the Portuguese excels. His ability to break lines with carries (similar to Rodri and Kovacic) would add a new dimension to City’s buildup.
As Mostbet tactical expert Mark Thompson notes:
“City don’t need another scorer—they need a midfielder who can disrupt defensive shapes. Nunes’ knack for drawing multiple defenders opens space for Haaland and Foden.”
The Big Question: Can Guardiola Fix His Weaknesses?
- Finishing: Lopetegui openly urged improvement (1 goal from 2.5 xG at Wolves).
- Decision-making: Sometimes holds the ball too long.
- Defensive discipline: Sent off vs. Brighton after a rash challenge.
Yet, if anyone can refine these flaws, it’s Guardiola. Remember how he transformed Raheem Sterling and İlkay Gündoğan?
Final Verdict: A High-Risk, High-Reward Move
Nunes to City isn’t about what he’s done—it’s about what he could do. Under Guardiola’s guidance, his ball-carrying could become a lethal weapon. But if he fails to adapt, he risks becoming another expensive misfit.
Mostbet prediction: If the deal happens, expect Nunes to shine in a defined role—likely as an advanced 8, linking play and driving forward. The stage is set for a breakout season.
What do you think? Can Nunes thrive at City, or is this a gamble? Share your thoughts below!
Will Guardiola unlock Nunes’ potential, or will the Wolves struggles follow him to Manchester?
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