ISL 2025/26: No Fear, Only Focus: Nuno Ready for New Challenge with Mumbai City FC

Sayan Pramanik: A newly signed defender of Mumbai City FC recently shared his thoughts in an exclusive interview, opening up about his return to India, the current state of Indian football, refereeing standards, and adapting to new challenges both on and off the field.

Ray Sportz: How difficult was your decision to return to India and play again?
Nuno: It wasn’t a tough decision to come back to India. The real challenge in Indian football right now is the uncertainty. There are always some club-related issues, which are normal, but the league needs more stability. If agreements can be reached quickly, it will benefit all clubs.
Ray Sportz: You have previously worked with your coach. Did that influence your move?
Nuno: Yes, of course. He was my coach at Melbourne City FC and remains a good friend. We stayed in touch even when I played elsewhere. When I returned to Portugal, he called me and asked if I would consider coming back to India. Knowing his style and professionalism made the decision easy. Mumbai City is also a great club, so everything aligned perfectly.
Ray Sportz: There were some controversial refereeing decisions in your recent match. What is your opinion on Indian referees?
Nuno: We all make mistakes because we are human. But I think referees explaining their decisions after matches—like players and coaches do in press conferences—could be a positive step. It would improve transparency in football globally. However, as players, we must be careful when commenting, as it can lead to suspensions.
Ray Sportz: There were reports of heated moments in the match. Any comments?
Nuno: The match was intense, and some things happened on the field. But it’s better to keep those matters within the game. Unfortunately, we lost a player for the next match, but that’s football—we move forward.
Ray Sportz: How are you adapting to India’s climate?
Nuno: The biggest challenge is humidity. In places like Mumbai, the weather can be manageable, but in regions like Kerala, the humidity is very high, making it difficult. You need time to adapt gradually.
Ray Sportz: Coming from Portugal, did players like Cristiano Ronaldo influence your career choice?
Nuno: Not really. My father, who was a central defender, influenced me the most. He put me in that position from a young age. But if I had the choice, I might have preferred being a striker—it’s more fun, scoring goals and entertaining fans!
Ray Sportz: You will face your former teammate Jamie Maclaren. How special will that be?
Nuno: We are friends off the field, but during the 90 minutes, there is no friendship—only competition. He’s a great striker, and I’ll do my best to stop him from scoring.
Ray Sportz: Did he say anything to you after your move?
Nuno: Yes, he congratulated me and wished me the best. He’s a fantastic person and a great leader.
Ray Sportz: Does your recent win boost confidence ahead of the next match?
Nuno: Definitely. It’s always easier to work after a win. The victory gives us confidence, but we must stay grounded, keep working hard, and improve day by day.
Ray Sportz: Have you tried Indian food yet?
Nuno: Not properly traditional Mumbai food yet, but I’m looking forward to exploring it soon.