A few years ago, a tearful video of Matheus Cunha went viral after he was left out of Brazil’s 2022 World Cup squad. Now, the forward has turned that heartbreak into motivation, becoming a regular name in Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil team.
Cunha still remembers that painful moment vividly, calling it the turning point of his career. From breaking down in tears to breaking into the national team, his journey has been one of determination and resilience. Today, he’s a confident, in-form striker hoping to secure his place in Brazil’s next World Cup squad.
The Manchester United star has been in superb form lately, earning the trust of his new coach, Ancelotti. The Italian tactician has included Cunha in all four of his Brazil squads since taking charge. The 26-year-old is also set to feature in Saturday’s friendly against Senegal at London’s Emirates Stadium.
Speaking at a press conference before the match, Cunha reflected on how that disappointment three years ago helped shape him into the player he is today.
“Every moment in life is an opportunity to grow stronger. Missing out on the Qatar World Cup squad was painful, but it taught me how to handle setbacks differently. I became more mature, and that disappointment motivated me to reach where I am now.”
At that time, Cunha was playing for Atlético Madrid. He later spent two seasons with Wolverhampton Wanderers before making the move to Old Trafford last June. Since joining Manchester United, he has rediscovered his best form and become a key player under Rubén Amorim. His performances have played a big part in United’s recent resurgence.
Cunha believes that his consistency at club level has been crucial in cementing his place in the Brazil squad.
“Manchester United is a club that should always be at the top. I’m grateful to be part of a team that’s showing its strength and fighting for results. To earn a spot in the national team, you must constantly prove yourself at club level—and I’m doing that here.”
Just like Amorim, Ancelotti also trusts him deeply. In recent months, Cunha has been deployed in multiple roles for Brazil—sometimes as a winger, sometimes as a traditional striker, and at times even as a hybrid attacking midfielder.
“The manager’s trust in me to play different positions means a lot,” Cunha said. “It gives me the responsibility to perform and the motivation to work harder—no matter where he asks me to play. Whatever the role, I know I have to give my best and keep proving myself.”
