Matheus Nunes says qualifying for the Champions League would feel like Manchester City's version of winning the Premier League this season.
The 26-year-old Portuguese international netted his first league goal for City with a late winner against Aston Villa on Tuesday, securing a 2-1 victory that moved them up to third in the table. Villa remain in seventh, as the race for the top five intensifies.
Despite the win, it's been a disappointing season by City’s standards. Their four-year reign as Premier League champions is set to end, and they were knocked out of the Champions League in the play-off stage.
“This is our Premier League trophy now – qualifying for the Champions League,” Nunes said. “It’s hugely important for the club, for the players, and for our mentality. We can’t fight for the title anymore, so this has become our main goal.”
City Aiming to Finish Strong
Securing a Champions League spot would extend City’s run in Europe’s top competition to 15 straight seasons. Their final four league games – against Wolves, Southampton, Bournemouth, and Fulham – appear favorable on paper.
City also remain in contention for the FA Cup, with a semi-final clash against Nottingham Forest coming up. A win would send them to a third consecutive final.
Injuries have plagued the squad throughout the season, and Nunes has even been used as a makeshift right-back. He admits he’s still adjusting to the unfamiliar role and hopes to improve with more time.
When asked if a top-five finish and an FA Cup final would make this a successful season, Nunes was honest in his response.
“Of course not. The standards at this club are much higher,” he said. “This isn’t where we want to be, but it’s our reality now. We have to treat this challenge like it’s the Premier League title.
“This season’s been a rollercoaster, but everyone in the squad understands how vital Champions League qualification is. That’s our focus now – and we’re going all in.”