It’s appears that Manchester City midfielder Matheus Nunes needs a moment to build his confidence. It is clear that the Portuguese international has the talent to succeed at the world champions. But it does appear that a lack of confidence is holding him back from fulfilling his potential under Pep Guardiola.
Matheus Nunes had a decent performance yesterday during City’s 5-1 win over Luton Town at the Etihad Stadium. At times, he showed the class that is evident in his game. He almost had his first moment of significance in a Manchester City shirt. He hit the post in the first half, which almost saw the Manchester City midfielder score his first goal for the club. An unfortunate slip when through on goal early in the second half deprived him of another opportunity to seize his moment as a City player.
READ MORE: City player ratings from Manchester City’s 5-1 win over Luton Town.
Unfortunately for Matheus Nunes, it was his slip that allowed Ross Barkley to score for the Hatters to pull a goal back in the 81st minute. That slip by the midfielder overshadowed what was a promising display from the midfielder. Given that it directly led to a goal, the slip by Nunes is what is remembered most of a promising display from the former Wolves man. Such moments can happen to any player, and how Nunes responds to that will be interesting to watch for going forward.
As a player, Matheus Nunes ticks the boxes required to be a Manchester City player. He is a smooth operator in midfield with an eye for a pass and is prepared to track back when required. It does seem that a lack of confidence is holding him back. He either appears to be trying to hard to impress or gives the impression that he feels he doesn’t belong on the pitch with his illustrious teammates.
A big moment may inspire the Manchester City midfielder to greater heights. Whether that moment is his first goal for the club, a dominant performance, or a game breaking assist doesn’t matter. It does appear if Matheus Nunes gets that moment it may unlock his potential as a Manchester City player.
As the season enters the penultimate stage, Manchester City will need the entire squad to contribute. It will be needed if the world champions are to defend the treble they famously won a season ago. It’s amidst this backdrop that the moment Matheus Nunes seems to need to take the next step as a Manchester City player may arrive. When it does, if he seizes upon that moment, it may unlock his potential as an important contributor to the European champions.