Ahead of Portugal's FIFA World Cup Group K opener against DR Congo in Houston, midfielder Matheus Nunes has voiced his hope that Manchester City teammate Ruben Dias will be fit for the crucial match. Dias, who plays alongside Nunes at the club level, has been training separately from the squad for undisclosed reasons, sparking concerns over his availability.
Nunes on Dias' Importance
Speaking at a press conference, Nunes emphasized Dias' significance to the team. "Obviously we want him to be present in every game because he is very important. My partner from City -- we all know how important he is to this national team. He is one of the leaders, a very present voice in the dressing room and outside it as well. I hope he will be good for the first game and for the rest of the World Cup too," Nunes said, as quoted by Reuters.
Addressing Criticism on Training and Beach Visits
Nunes also addressed media criticism regarding Portugal's late arrival in the United States and their use of beach facilities at the training base in Florida. He explained that these activities are part of the acclimatization plan. "We go to the beach in the mornings to adapt to the climate, because obviously I spend the whole year playing in Manchester, and there is not as much sun or heat there, and it is a huge difference. I think it is perfectly normal. It should not give the impression that we are spending more time at the beach than training. In the morning, we go to the beach, and then in the afternoon we do our normal training every day," he clarified.
Versatility on the Pitch
The Portuguese international, known for his versatility, stated that he is comfortable playing both as a full-back and midfielder. "I feel like both. I think I'm comfortable in both positions. I have now had almost a season and a half playing at fullback, so I am more than used to everything that the position involves. I have also played left wing, and I have played in all sorts of positions that I feel I can do. I would say I am comfortable in both positions. I do not really have a preference at the moment," Nunes added.
National Identity and Loyalty
Nunes, who moved to Portugal from Brazil at age 12, chose to represent Portugal after being called up by Brazil in 2021. He expressed his gratitude and loyalty to his adopted nation. "I feel like I am both -- I am Portuguese, I am Brazilian. But when it comes to football, I owe much more to Portugal than to Brazil because Portugal gave me the opportunity to be who I am today. It was Portugal that opened the doors for me. Obviously, it was difficult, but I am very proud to have chosen Portugal, and I am very happy to play for Portugal," he concluded.
