Man City title winners slam ‘strange’ Matheus Nunes at Brentford
Man City midfielder Matheus Nunes was criticised after his “strange” play cost his side against Bournemouth, by Joe Hart and Joleon Lescott.
The Cityzens were held goalless at halftime against a resilient Brentford side, with the Portuguese midfielder missing a golden chance to break the deadlock.
Playing at right-back instead of Kyle Walker—who has been linked with a move away despite fan opposition—Nunes found himself through on goal.
However, instead of shooting immediately, he opted to chop onto his left foot. This gave Brentford defenders enough time to block his effort.
Former City players Joleon Lescott and Joe Hart, speaking on TNT Sports at half time, were baffled by his decision. Lescott said: “As he’s running through, you’re thinking just shoot. Hit the target; if the keeper spills it, Haaland’s running in at the back post.
“But the decision to cut inside and chop it… it was strange for me. It shows a lack of confidence in front of goal”.
Hart agreed, adding, “He just didn’t look comfortable. He looked like he was dying for the Brentford players to give him an opportunity to pass to Haaland, and when they didn’t, he just confused himself.”
A pair of strikes from Phil Foden put City in the ascendency but Yoane Wissa pulled one back to make the finish uncomfortable for the champions, before Nunes’ failure proved costly as Christian Norgaard netted a stoppage-time equaliser.
Man City have needed to rely on Matheus Nunes this season
Football Insider Verdict
Pep Guardiola’s side faced a tough Brentford team, who have only lost twice at home this season, in a challenging encounter.
Nunes starting at right-back highlighted City’s current squad situation, with limited options available for the position.
The former Wolves midfielder, who joined for £53 million [Sky Sports], has struggled to cement a regular role. This has contributed to ongoing speculation about a potential move away from the Etihad.
Nunes has made 12 Premier League appearances this season, starting seven matches. Last season, he managed just nine starts, and his inclusion in the lineup often stems from external circumstances rather than consistent form.
The Portuguese international, with three goals this season, had a critical opportunity to put City ahead in a tight game.
However, his missed chance at a pivotal moment could have been costly. Limited playing time and inconsistent starts have likely impacted his confidence. This is a factor Guardiola will need to address as the season progresses.
In other news, Man City have set their sights on signing in this position in the January transfer window.
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