Guardiola: Nunes and O’Reilly Have Been Open-Minded to New Roles
Pep Guardiola has applauded the remarkable attitude shown by Matheus Nunes and Nico O’Reilly as the duo
continue to excel in their unexpected full-back roles for Manchester City.
Though both players have spent most of their careers as midfielders, they have adapted impressively,
becoming key parts of City’s tactical setup this season.
Speaking during Friday’s press conference ahead of the Premier League clash against Newcastle,
Guardiola said their success comes not only from technical ability but from their willingness
to embrace new challenges.
“The system needed it,” Guardiola explained. “In training sessions we realised they had special
attributes to play those positions. We convinced them—but mainly they had to convince themselves.”
The City boss added that not every player is open-minded enough to switch roles:
“Some players say they don’t want to play different positions. But when you play regularly,
you gain confidence. Nico Gonzalez, for example, is improving game by game because he’s playing a lot.”
Guardiola noted that midfielders adapting to full-back roles is not new in his system, referencing
Oleksandr Zinchenko and Fabian Delph. “When I see midfield players, I know they can work in small spaces.
Matheus may struggle in some areas, but his physicality is far higher than Aleks or Fabian.”
With limited natural full-backs available, Guardiola emphasized the importance of flexibility:
“We don’t have many full-backs. Rico is exceptional in the middle. It comes down to players being open.
If they start saying they can’t do it, it becomes a problem.”
Haaland Chasing Premier League History
Saturday’s trip to St James’ Park could see Erling Haaland break another record.
If he scores against Newcastle, Haaland will become the fastest player to reach
100 Premier League goals—surpassing Toon legend Alan Shearer.
Shearer, the league’s all-time top scorer with 260 goals, reached the milestone far slower—but Guardiola
insists his legacy remains unmatched.
“Alan Shearer has been the greatest scorer in this league,” Guardiola said.
“Whatever happens with Erling, Shearer will remain at the top. His consistency and resilience
over so many seasons is incredible.”
Guardiola added that Haaland’s early numbers are extraordinary:
“If he stays for a long time and keeps this average, he will be close to Harry Kane and Shearer.
But we never know what the future holds.”
FAQ
Q: Why are Nunes and O’Reilly playing as full-backs?
A: Guardiola says the system required it, and both players showed the attributes to perform the role effectively.
Q: Are they performing well in their new positions?
A: Yes. Guardiola says they have “shone” and become crucial in the team due to their openness and adaptability.
Q: Can Haaland break the Premier League 100-goal record this weekend?
A: Yes, if he scores against Newcastle, he becomes the fastest player ever to reach 100 PL goals.
Q: Does Guardiola think Haaland can surpass Shearer’s all-time record?
A: He says it’s possible if Haaland stays for many years, but Shearer’s consistency still stands unmatched.
Conclusion
Pep Guardiola’s praise for Matheus Nunes and Nico O’Reilly highlights the value of versatility
in Manchester City’s evolving system. Their willingness to embrace new responsibilities has turned
them into vital components of the squad. Meanwhile, Erling Haaland stands on the verge of another
historic achievement, adding more excitement to City’s trip to Newcastle. With tactical innovation
and record-breaking potential on display, Manchester City continue shaping another compelling season.
