Mateus Fernandes’ first call-up for the Portuguese national team has sparked plenty of reflection among the West Ham United playmaker’s former clubs.
According Aderito Esteves, the president of SC Olhanense, Fernandes’ ‘natural talent’ meant he stood out from a very young age. West Ham United’s £40 million midfielder was, to quote Esteves, ‘different’ right from the off.
Now, speaking to O Jogo ahead of Portugal’s friendly with Mexico on Sunday night, it was the turn of former Sporting Lisbon B coach Filipe Celikkaya to reflect on the path taken by his former protege.
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The Algarve-born Mateus Fernandes could make his senior national team debut this weekend, having captained the Under-21 side since the autumn.
Former Sporting coach reflects on Mateus Fernandes’ West Ham United rise
Celikkaya, who currently works as an assistant coach at MLS outfit Chicago Fire, recalls Fernandes being ‘a shy boy but one who, in a group, could show all his talent’.
“A great person, with whom it’s a pleasure to talk and work,” adds the former Shakhtar Donetsk and Vitoria Guimaraes tactician. “Besides his talent and ability, he’s very humble and focused.
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“He’s already the present of the National Team and also the future.”
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The ‘future’ of the Portuguese national team. That is quite the compliment. Roberto Martinez praised Fernandes ‘incredible’ development when confirming his selection last week. Though a World Cup spot is still far-from guaranteed – Fernandes gets his chance this month partly due to Joao Palhinha’s injury and Bernardo Silva needing a rest – he is one of the youngest of a Portuguese squad in transition.
Portugal newbie Fernandes displays ‘above-average maturity’
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“We know the quality of the players in his position,” adds Celikkaya, Fernandes facing competition from namesake Bruno, plus Ruben Neves, Matheus Nunes, Vitinha and Joao Neves.
“But being called up for one last squad [before the World Cup] gives him a seal of great quality. And because of his humility, he can have a very big impact.”
“He shows above-average maturity for his age. He manages to have a great participation in building the game, but also the ability to serve in more advanced areas.
“He has to enjoy this trip to the national team. If he manages to make his debut, it will be fantastic. If not, he will continue his path of development and there will be other opportunities.”
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Mateus Fernandes praised Nuno Espirito Santo for helping to take his game to another level following relegation at Southampton in 2025.
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