Matheus Nunes Then and Now
By Cornell Scott / August 25, 2025
As the football world enters 2025, few players have undergone a more impressive transformation than Matheus Nunes. Once viewed as a promising but raw midfield talent from Portugal, Nunes has emerged as a dynamic, box-to-box force in the English Premier League, anchoring Manchester City’s midfield with composure, energy, and growing leadership.
After a pivotal role in one of the most successful seasons in club history, Matheus Nunes stands not just as a reliable squad player, but as a key figure in one of football’s most dominant teams.
Then: The Rising Star in Portugal (2016–2022)
1. Humble Beginnings and Early Career
Born on August 27, 1998, in Bauru, Brazil, Matheus Luiz Nunes moved to Portugal at the age of 5, where he grew up and developed his footballing identity. He joined Sporting CP’s youth academy but was released as a teenager—a setback that could have derailed his dreams.
Undeterred, Nunes joined low-tier club C.D. Olivais e Moscavide, before earning a spot at Real Massamá. His talent eventually caught the eye of C.D. Mafra, where he made his professional debut in 2017.
2. Breakthrough at Estoril and Sporting CP
His performances at Mafra led to a move to Estoril Praia in 2018. There, he began to shine:
- Scored 10 goals and 5 assists in 77 appearances
- Showcased a rare blend of ball-carrying ability, stamina, and tactical intelligence
His rise attracted interest from top Portuguese clubs. In 2020, Sporting CP signed him for €8 million—a bargain in hindsight.
At Sporting, Nunes became a central figure in their 2020–21 Primeira Liga title-winning campaign—the club’s first league title in 19 years. His ability to drive forward with the ball, break lines, and contribute defensively made him one of the most exciting midfielders in Portugal.
3. International Recognition
In 2021, Nunes made his senior debut for the Portugal national team, earning praise for his energy and adaptability. Though initially a rotation player, he played in key qualifiers and tournaments, including UEFA Euro 2024, where he was praised for his work rate and versatility.
Related: Wesley Fofana Then and Now
The Transition: Move to Wolves and Adaptation to the Premier League (2022–2023)
1. £38 Million Move to Wolverhampton Wanderers
In August 2022, Matheus Nunes made a high-profile move to Wolverhampton Wanderers for £38 million, one of the club’s record signings. The step up to the Premier League was challenging:
- Struggled initially with the physicality and pace
- Played in multiple roles: central midfield, number 8, even right-wing
- Showed flashes of brilliance but lacked consistency
Despite a difficult start, his technical quality and fearlessness earned admiration from fans and pundits alike.
2. Development Under Julen Lopetegui
Under manager Julen Lopetegui (2023–2024), Nunes found greater stability. He was used more consistently as a progressive midfielder, tasked with ball progression, pressing, and supporting attacks. His stats improved:
- Over 2.5 progressive carries per game
- High pass completion in final third
- Strong defensive contributions
By the end of the 2023–24 season, he was one of Wolves’ standout performers, confirming his status as a Premier League-ready talent.
Related: Kalvin Phillips Then and Now
Now: The Manchester City Era and 2024–25 Breakout (2024–2025)
1. High-Stakes Move to Manchester City
In August 2024, after months of speculation, Manchester City signed Matheus Nunes for £55 million—a significant investment in the future of their midfield. With Rodri aging and Kevin De Bruyne entering the final phase of his career, Guardiola identified Nunes as the ideal long-term successor: a dynamic, intelligent, and versatile midfielder.
The pressure was immense. But Nunes responded with immediate impact.
2. Key Role in City’s Historic 2024–25 Season
By early 2025, Matheus Nunes had become an essential part of Manchester City’s starting XI, especially during crucial Champions League and Premier League fixtures.
His contributions include:
- Midfield balance: Combining defensive discipline with explosive forward runs
- Ball progression: One of City’s top players for progressive carries and line-breaking passes
- Tactical flexibility: Playing as a double pivot midfielder, false eight, and even right-sided midfielder in a 4-3-3
- Crucial goals and assists: Including a game-winning strike against Liverpool in January 2025
He played a vital role in City’s domestic title defense and deep Champions League run, earning praise from Guardiola:
“Matheus has the heart of a champion and the brain of a technician. He’s perfect for us.”
3. Evolution as a Complete Midfielder
In 2025, Nunes is no longer just a runner with the ball. He has evolved into a complete modern midfielder:
- Improved decision-making in the final third
- Greater positional awareness
- Stronger defensive discipline
- Leadership and communication on the pitch
His ability to cover ground, win duels, and transition play makes him ideal for Guardiola’s high-pressing, possession-based system.
4. Ballon d’Or Recognition and Global Profile
By mid-2025, Nunes has entered Ballon d’Or conversations, finishing in the Top 20 for the first time. He’s also become a regular starter for Portugal, forming a formidable midfield trio with Vitinha and Bernardo Silva.
His market value has soared to €80 million (per Transfermarkt), and he’s signed major endorsement deals with Nike, EA Sports, and Hublot.
Related: Lisandro Martínez Then and Now
Personal Life and Character
Known for his calm demeanor and strong work ethic, Nunes is a quiet leader who leads through performance. He is married to Carolina Nunes, and the couple maintains a private life, often sharing moments of family and faith on social media.
A devout Christian, he frequently credits God and perseverance for his success, especially after being released by Sporting CP as a youth.
He’s also involved in charity work in Portugal and Brazil, supporting youth football programs and education initiatives.
Related: Takefusa Kubo Then and Now
Cultural Impact and Legacy (2025 Perspective)
Matheus Nunes represents a new breed of midfielder—physically powerful, technically gifted, and tactically intelligent. His journey—from being cut as a teenager to starring at Manchester City—is a testament to resilience and self-belief.
He’s also a symbol of Portuguese football’s depth, joining the ranks of Bernardo Silva, Rúben Dias, and Diogo Jota as key figures in England’s top flight.
His rise reflects a broader trend in football: the value of versatile, high-energy midfielders who can thrive in multiple systems—a role he now defines.
Conclusion: Matheus Nunes – Then and Now (2025)
- Then: A Brazilian-born youngster released by Sporting CP, fighting to prove himself in Portugal’s lower leagues.
- Now: A Premier League champion contender, Champions League regular, and vital force for Manchester City and Portugal.
In 2025, Matheus Nunes is no longer just a promising talent.
He is a proven performer on the biggest stage, a symbol of perseverance, and a blueprint for modern midfield excellence.
As Manchester City enters a new era and Portugal looks to the next generation, one thing is clear:
Matheus Nunes isn’t just arriving.
He’s already leading.
🔥 “They doubted me at every step. Now, I play for the team that defines greatness.” – Matheus Nunes (2025)
Related: Yassine Bounou Then and Now