ORLANDO, FL – As the Seleção prepares for their final warm-ups before the 2026 World Cup, Manchester United’s Matheus Cunha took center stage at the Brazil press conference this week. Looking sharp and sounding like a man who has finally found his rhythm, the 26-year-old forward didn’t hold back on why this “new cycle” under Carlo Ancelotti feels different.
“I’ve Matured”: From Qatar Heartbreak to United Hero
For many Brazilian fans, the image of a distraught Cunha missing out on the 2022 World Cup squad is still fresh. But at the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex in Orlando, a smiling Cunha made it clear that those days are behind him.
“Every moment in life is an opportunity to grow,” Cunha told reporters. “Not being selected for Qatar was painful, but it taught me to deal with setbacks differently. The frustration then has driven me to where I am now.”
That “now” is a starring role at Old Trafford. Cunha, who recently scooped the Manchester United Goal of the Month for March 2026 for his ice-cool strike against Aston Villa, credited his club form for his solidified spot in Ancelotti’s plans.
The Versatility Card
With the unfortunate ACL injury to Real Madrid’s Rodrygo and the ongoing debate surrounding Neymar’s fitness, Cunha’s ability to play across the front line has become Ancelotti’s secret weapon.
• The Hybrid Role: Cunha has been operating as a hybrid attacking midfielder and forward, a transition he says was made easier by Ruben Amorim’s tactical setup in Manchester.
• Tactical Trust: “Knowing that the manager [Ancelotti] trusts me to play in multiple positions is important,” he noted. “It gives me the responsibility to be decisive no matter where he places me.”
A United Front
Cunha was also quick to highlight the resurgence of Manchester United as a catalyst for his international success. Following Brazil’s recent 2-1 friendly loss to France at Gillette Stadium—where both he and teammate Casemiro started—Cunha remains defiant about the level of competition.
“Manchester United is a club that should always be at the top,” he said. “To earn a spot in the national team, you have to consistently show your worth at club level. I’m grateful to be in a side that’s competing well.”
As Brazil heads toward the World Cup in North America, Cunha isn’t just a passenger anymore; he’s looking like a guaranteed starter.
