Guardiola Takes the Blame for Nunes’ Lack of Game Time as City Midfielder Shines in Europe
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has built a dynasty with four consecutive Premier League titles under his belt. Yet, despite the club’s success, not every player is entirely satisfied with their role—especially those, like Matheus Nunes, who have struggled for consistent game time.
Guardiola has openly accepted responsibility for Nunes’ limited appearances since his £53m move from Wolves in 2023. The Portuguese midfielder was expected to make a big impact, but he only featured in half of City’s league games last season and has yet to start in the Premier League this term, despite a long-term injury to midfield stalwart Rodri. However, Nunes has been given opportunities to shine in Europe.
Nunes started City’s 4-0 victory over Slovan Bratislava at the start of October and followed that up with a standout performance in the 5-0 demolition of Sparta Prague on Wednesday. He didn’t just fill in; he thrived, scoring once and assisting twice in a masterclass of midfield dynamism.
Despite his recent form, Guardiola insists that Nunes’ lack of Premier League minutes is down to his own decisions, not the player’s shortcomings. “He’s really good—when he scored, you could see how happy his teammates were,” Guardiola said after the Sparta Prague match. “[He is] incredibly beloved and he is a lovely guy.”
Guardiola went on to praise Nunes for his unique abilities, particularly his explosive pace in transitions. “He is as fast as Erling [Haaland]. When he runs 30-40 meters, no one can stop him. He has a special quality that we don’t have. That’s why we need him.”
However, Guardiola was quick to shoulder the blame for Nunes not getting the minutes he may deserve. “[The] only problem he has is his manager doesn’t give him the minutes he deserves,” Guardiola admitted, acknowledging that with City’s limited squad depth due to injuries, Nunes will play a crucial role going forward.
This situation mirrors Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta’s handling of Gabriel Martinelli in 2021. At the time, Martinelli was frustrated with a lack of starts after returning from a knee injury, but Arteta reassured him that patience would be key. “If anything, it’s my fault,” Arteta said, noting that Martinelli had done everything right but had to wait for his opportunity.
Arteta’s faith was rewarded as Martinelli went on to become a cornerstone of Arsenal’s attack, racking up 100 league appearances across the following three seasons. Guardiola seems to believe a similar path awaits Nunes.
With Southampton visiting on Saturday, Nunes could be targeting his first Premier League start of the season. Whether he gets the nod remains to be seen, but his performances in Europe have surely put him on Guardiola’s radar.
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