Pep Guardiola's Unintended Foe Within His Ranks
Manchester City's costly error in the derby against Manchester United stemmed from an unexpected source within their own lineup.
Pep Guardiola once praised Matheus Nunes, stating, "Matheus Nunes is one of the best in the world right now." In September 2023, the Portuguese midfielder joined Manchester City for €62 million. Over a year later, a brief moment was enough to shock the entire Etihad Stadium, as Nunes inadvertently became his team's adversary.
City entered the Manchester derby with the determination expected of a football giant, having won only one of their last ten matches. Guardiola aimed to minimize risks and prevent scoring opportunities for the opponent. This strategy proved effective in the first half, with a goal from Joško Gvardiol in the 36th minute putting City ahead at the Etihad.
The Croatian defender, positioned on the left side of the defense, supported Nunes, who, despite being a midfielder, was deployed as a left-back. However, Amorim exploited this flank with Amad Diallo and Diogo Dalot, causing problems for City.
Nunes had excelled as a box-to-box midfielder at Sporting Lisbon, catching Guardiola's eye during his tenure at Wolverhampton Wanderers. In August 2022, Nunes moved to Wolves for €47.4 million, becoming the club's record signing. A year later, he transferred to Manchester City for €62 million. In his first season at the Etihad, Nunes made 31 appearances, providing five assists.
This season, Guardiola defended Nunes against criticism, granting him more playing time. To date, Nunes has featured in 20 matches, scoring three goals and registering six assists. However, in the match against Manchester United, he was the primary culprit in his team's defeat.
In the 88th minute, after performing well as a left-back, Nunes committed an inexplicable error. Following a corner in City's favor, he delivered a weak pass to Ederson, allowing Diallo a one-on-one opportunity. Although Diallo hesitated, and the danger seemed averted, Nunes clearly fouled him. A penalty was awarded to United, which Bruno Fernandes converted, bringing United back into the game.
Guardiola's reaction spoke volumes: hands on his head and a face full of regret. He couldn't comprehend why such incidents were plaguing his team. Nunes's mistake granted United an extra chance, culminating in Diallo's goal in the 90th minute, securing their victory.