"He's Not Smart Enough To Play In Midfield" - Pep Guardiola Criticizes Matheus Nunes' Midfield Intelligence

Pep Guardiola has raised doubts about Matheus Nunes' intelligence in midfield, suggesting that the Portuguese international is not yet clever enough to thrive in that role at Manchester City. As a result, the City manager has been deploying Nunes in a right-back position, where he has shown promise due to his physical attributes.

Guardiola explained his decision, stating, "He has the pace we don’t have. It’s not his natural position but he’s helped us offensively and defensively." The City boss acknowledged Nunes' ability to contribute in various roles, including midfield, but indicated that time is needed for him to adapt fully to the tactical demands of the team.

He further added, "He can play in holding midfield, he can play in attacking midfield, with time he could play at full-back with his physicality."