Pep Guardiola – Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is reportedly willing to approve a move for Matheus Nunes, with Liverpool among the clubs interested in the midfielder’s potential departure this summer.
The uncertainty surrounding Nunes’ future at City intensified after Ilkay Gundogan made an unexpected return to the club following a short stint with Barcelona. Gundogan’s re-signing has raised concerns about Nunes’ position in the squad, pushing him further down the pecking order.
Nunes, who joined City from Wolverhampton Wanderers in a £54 million transfer last year, has struggled to find his footing under Guardiola. Last season, he made only 17 league appearances, failing to make a significant impact.
According to reports from the Daily Star, Newcastle United have been closely monitoring Nunes’ situation, though they can currently only propose a loan deal. Liverpool and Chelsea had expressed interest earlier in the transfer window, and now West Ham United and Everton are also keeping tabs on the situation. A loan deal with a £40 million option to buy seems to be the most likely scenario.
Despite receiving a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia, the 25-year-old Portuguese international is reportedly frustrated with his limited playing time and is eager to rejuvenate his career with a move to another Premier League club. Guardiola, known for not obstructing players seeking more opportunities elsewhere, is unlikely to stand in Nunes’ way.
The City manager has admitted that he cannot guarantee Nunes anything more than a peripheral role this season, a reality further complicated by Gundogan’s return to the team.
Manchester City has seen several players depart this summer, including Julian Alvarez and Kalvin Phillips, and more exits are expected before the transfer window closes. Nunes, along with his compatriot Joao Cancelo, is likely among those who could leave the club.
While City has been relatively quiet in terms of new signings—aside from the arrivals of Savinho and Gundogan—the team has still managed a strong start to the season, winning both of their opening matches and scoring six goals in the process.
Guardiola has hinted that further signings are unlikely unless unforeseen injuries occur or a financially and tactically suitable opportunity arises. Mateo Kovacic’s recent injury in the victory over Ipswich Town and Rodri’s delayed return after his Euro 2024 participation may influence future decisions. However, Guardiola remains optimistic, stating, “I didn’t speak with the doctors. I think it was just a knock.”