Manchester United forward Matheus Cunha has attributed his return to the Brazil national team to the club’s revival under manager Ruben Amorim, crediting the Portuguese coach’s system and faith in him for helping secure a regular place in Carlo Ancelotti’s squad ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Since Ancelotti’s appointment in May, Cunha has become a consistent figure in the Brazil setup, featuring in all four of the Italian’s squad selections. The 26-year-old’s form at Old Trafford — marked by tactical flexibility and improved productivity — has positioned him as a valuable option in Brazil’s attacking unit.
Cunha has evolved into a dynamic hybrid between attacking midfielder and forward under Amorim, a shift he believes has strengthened his international credentials.
“Knowing that the manager trusts me to play in multiple roles is important,” Cunha said during a press conference in London on Tuesday, ahead of Brazil’s friendly against Senegal at the Emirates Stadium. “It gives me the responsibility to be decisive and to always work hard, regardless of position. You need to deliver and prove you’re ready.”
The forward also reflected on his personal journey, acknowledging that Manchester United’s resurgence has been instrumental in his development. His time at Atletico Madrid ended in disappointment after missing Brazil’s 2022 World Cup squad — a setback that he now views as a defining experience.
A video that circulated at the time showed Cunha visibly emotional after learning of his omission. Two years on, he credits that moment with instilling a renewed sense of resilience and perspective.
“Every moment in life is an opportunity to grow,” he said. “Not being selected for Qatar was painful, but it taught me how to handle adversity differently. I’ve matured, and that frustration became motivation. It pushed me to improve.”
Under Amorim, United have rediscovered structure and intensity — qualities Cunha believes are mirrored in his own performances.
“Manchester United is a club that belongs at the top,” he said. “I’m grateful to be part of a team that’s competing at a high level again. To earn a place in the national team, you need to show consistency and commitment with your club.”
Looking ahead to next year’s World Cup, Cunha praised the clarity and purpose Ancelotti has instilled within the Brazil squad, emphasizing the renewed sense of direction under the veteran coach.
“This new cycle feels different,” he noted. “Even with players rotating in and out, the ideas are clear. Everyone knows what’s expected — and what we want to achieve.”
Cunha’s story, marked by resilience and adaptation, now reflects the broader narrative of both Brazil’s rebuild and Manchester United’s revival — two projects driven by renewed belief and tactical discipline.
