The Portuguese media delivered interesting verdicts on Manchester City’s Matheus Nunes after his display on Thursday night.
Three Manchester City stars were in action as Portugal defeated Sweden 5-2, with Matheus Nunes being joined by Bernardo Silva and Ruben Dias in the starting XI.
Bernardo was typically brilliant as he picked up two assists but it was Nunes who caught the eye of the Portuguese press.
The 25-year-old was earning just his 12th cap and his first since Portugal’s World Cup defeat to South Korea in December 2022.
Nunes has had to vie his time for an opportunity in Roberto Martinez’s team but took it when it finally arrived.
The midfielder scored the second goal of the match by driving forward with the ball and firing it into the bottom corner with a fine finish.
Nunes impressed with his display and it’s believed he’s done his chances of making it to Euro 2024 a world of good.
Portuguese press praise Matheus Nunes
Multiple Portuguese publications praised Nunes. Publico wrote: “Just like Matheus Nunes, who was also very good.
“Matheus Nunes, a midfielder with a good ability to progress with the ball at his feet, did exactly that.
“He took the ball to the box without any Swede getting in his way and shot to count.
“A great return, he who did not play during the entire qualification for Euro 2024.”
Diario de Noticias said: “Among those who do not have a permanent place, Matheus Nunes and Nélson Semedo gained points.
“Matheus Nunes was a starter, something that hadn’t happened since 2022, and he immediately wanted to show that he deserves a place on the list for Euro2024.
“Matheus Nunes was the fuel that accelerated Portugal’s game and it was he who made it 2-0, after a combination between Bernardo Silva and Nuno Mendes.”
Finally, RTP Sport said: “Portugal only woke up after 15 minutes, with an excellent shot from Matheus Nunes, which left Olsen’s gloves on fire.
“In a game in which the Manchester City midfielder took the opportunity to show himself to the National Team and try to win a place in the squad chosen for Euro 2024.”
Something for Pep Guardiola to consider
Nunes’ effectiveness in the middle of the park is something for Pep Guardiola to mull over ahead of the massive Premier League clash with Arsenal.
The summer signing hasn’t had much time on the pitch so far, playing just three league games since the turn of the year, and he has often been tasked with playing out wide.
Instead, Julian Alvarez has been given a midfield spot and, though the Argentine started the season well, he has started to struggle in the position.
Nunes’ close control and drive from deep helped Portugal and they are skills City could utilise. If Kevin De Bruyne isn’t fit to face Arsenal, there could be an argument to play Nunes in the middle rather than Alvarez.