Matheus Nunes was born on August 27, 1998, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He grew up in one of the city's favelas, facing poverty and the absence of a father figure in his life. Despite these challenges, Nunes found solace and passion in playing soccer with his friends. They would roll up socks to use as makeshift balls, honing their skills and dreaming of one day playing professionally.
When Nunes was a teenager, his Brazilian mother made the bold decision to move the family to Portugal in search of a better life. In Portugal, Nunes started working in his family's bakery to help make ends meet, all while continuing to pursue his soccer dreams.
Upon arriving in Portugal, Nunes joined GDU Ericeirense in the lower leagues to kickstart his soccer career. His talent quickly caught the eye of scouts, leading to a move to Estoril in 2018. This marked the beginning of Nunes' professional journey as a soccer player.
Throughout his early career, Nunes faced obstacles and challenges, but his determination and hard work paid off. His skills on the field continued to improve, drawing comparisons to legendary Brazilian midfielders like Kaká and Ronaldinho.
In 2021, after living in Portugal for a decade, Nunes received his Portuguese passport. This pivotal moment allowed him to make a crucial decision about his international soccer career. Despite being called up to play for the Brazilian national team, Nunes ultimately chose to represent Portugal.
The decision to play for Portugal was influenced by national team manager Fernando Santos, who saw Nunes' potential and convinced him to don the Portuguese jersey. This marked a significant turning point in Nunes' career, solidifying his commitment to the Portuguese national team.
Currently, Matheus Nunes plays as a midfielder for Portugal's Primeira Liga side, Sporting CP. His dynamic playing style and skill on the field have earned him a loyal fan base, with 450,000 followers on Instagram.
As a member of Sporting CP, Nunes has had the opportunity to play alongside his idol, Cristiano Ronaldo. The captain of his team, Sebastián Coates, serves as a mentor and leader for Nunes on and off the field.
With each game, Nunes continues to impress fans and critics alike, showcasing his talents and dedication to the sport. His journey from the favelas of Rio de Janeiro to the professional soccer fields of Portugal is a testament to his resilience and passion for the game.