The Japanese rider had been rapid in practice - finishing every session in the top eight and leading the way in second practice until being edged back to fourth in the closing minutes.
But in the changeable conditions of qualifying, he tumbled back down to the midfield.
"It is a shame we haven't managed a higher grid position because I've been consistently fast here all weekend," said Nakano.
"Unfortunately I missed my final chance on a qualifying tyre because I was too late out onto the track to make the most of it."
However Nakano believes that his performances earlier in the weekend prove he is quick enough to come through the field in the race.
"In any case I am confident for the race because my pace is so good," he said.
"All I have to do is repeat that level of performance and I'll be able to have a good race."
Alex de Angelis fared even worse on the second Gresini bike, qualifying only 17th having also run out of time for a final quick lap on the drying circuit.
"Unfortunately we only got one lap in on a qualifying tyre - we went out late on the second one and the flag was waved before I got the flying lap in," said the Italian.
"We were unlucky because the track was visibly much drier so I'm sure I could have finished in the top ten."
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