Matheus Cunha Credits Manchester United Revival for Brazil Call-Ups Ahead of 2026 World Cup

Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha has credited Manchester United’s recent resurgence under manager Ruben Amorim as the driving force behind his consistent selection for the Brazil national team, as he eyes a long-term place in the squad ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The 26-year-old, who joined United in the summer, has become one of the Premier League side’s most effective attacking outlets this season. His versatility, pressing ability, and sharp link-up play have been key factors in United’s improved performances — and have not gone unnoticed by Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti.

“Manchester United is a club that should always be at the top,” Cunha said in an interview quoted by Reuters. “I’m grateful to be playing in a side that’s delivering and competing well. To earn a spot in the national team, you have to consistently show your worth at club level.”

United’s Form Helping Brazil Prospects

Cunha’s form mirrors United’s steady climb back into form under Amorim, who took charge earlier this year. After a rocky start to the season, United’s renewed attacking structure has seen Cunha thrive both as a striker and an attacking midfielder.

The Brazilian forward has been directly involved in 10 goals across all competitions this season, showcasing the kind of composure and technical flair that initially earned him recognition during his stint at Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Since Ancelotti’s appointment as Brazil coach, Cunha has received four international call-ups, a testament to his growing consistency at the club level.

“This new cycle feels different,” Cunha noted. “Even with many players rotating in and out, the direction is clear, and everyone understands what we aim to achieve. It’s a system where responsibility is shared, and performance at the club level truly matters.”

Versatility: Cunha’s Biggest Strength

One of Cunha’s most defining traits is his positional flexibility — an aspect that both Amorim and Ancelotti have leveraged. While naturally a forward, Cunha has also been deployed as a second striker, wide attacker, and attacking midfielder, providing tactical balance to whichever system he plays in.

“Knowing that the manager trusts me to play in multiple positions is important,” Cunha said. “It gives me the responsibility to be decisive and to always work hard no matter where he places me. You need to deliver and prove that you’re ready.”

His adaptability could prove crucial for Brazil’s 2026 World Cup campaign, where Ancelotti is expected to build a dynamic, multi-functional attack led by Vinícius Jr, Rodrygo, and Gabriel Martinelli.

From Qatar Snub to Comeback Story

Cunha’s current success is rooted in personal growth and perseverance following the disappointment of being left out of Brazil’s 2022 World Cup squad.

The forward went viral in 2022 when a video surfaced of him reacting emotionally to the news of his omission. However, he now sees that setback as a turning point in his career.

“Every moment in life is an opportunity to grow,” Cunha reflected. “Not being selected for Qatar was painful, but it taught me how to deal with setbacks differently. I’ve matured. The frustration then has driven me to where I am now.”

His improved mental resilience, combined with his on-field intelligence, has positioned him as one of Brazil’s most dependable attacking options heading into the World Cup qualifiers.

Ancelotti’s New Brazil Taking Shape

Under Carlo Ancelotti, Brazil has embraced a more structured, European-influenced tactical approach, prioritizing pressing, possession, and positional awareness. Players like Cunha — with experience in the Premier League and Bundesliga — fit seamlessly into this framework.

Brazil’s upcoming friendlies against Senegal and Tunisia, scheduled for November 15 and 19, will serve as another opportunity for Cunha to cement his place in the national setup.

Analysts believe that his ability to operate both centrally and on the flanks could make him an invaluable asset as Brazil prepare for the 2026 qualifiers and the Copa América 2026.

United Revival Boosting Confidence

Cunha’s confidence has soared since joining Manchester United. The team’s resurgence under Amorim — driven by a balance of youth and experience — has seen United rise to fourth place in the Premier League and advance to the UEFA Europa League knockout rounds.

“Playing at United is a privilege,” Cunha said. “When the team performs well, everyone benefits — not just in terms of results but also in how you grow as a player.”

With United showing renewed attacking fluidity, Cunha’s chemistry with Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho has been a bright spot, giving fans glimpses of a rejuvenated Red Devils attack.

Looking Ahead: Eyes on 2026

For Cunha, the focus now is consistency — both at club and international level. His goal is to secure a permanent place in Ancelotti’s Brazil setup ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

“I’m just enjoying my football and staying focused,” he said. “I want to keep contributing to Manchester United and to Brazil. The World Cup is the dream — but the daily work is what gets you there.”

As Brazil prepare for their next fixtures and United continue their climb back to the top, Matheus Cunha’s resurgence symbolizes how club form and international ambition can fuel each other — a blend of personal redemption and professional discipline that’s setting the stage for his biggest year yet.