Manchester United forward Matheus Cunha has made a candid admission about his international career, crediting his consistent club form for his recall to the Brazilian national team after the profound disappointment of missing the last World Cup.
From World Cup Heartbreak to Old Trafford Resurgence
The summer signing, who joined Ruben Amorim's Manchester United from Wolves, has become a fixture in the side during their recent unbeaten run. Arsenal are the only Premier League club on a longer unbeaten streak than the five matches United have now gone without defeat. Their last loss was almost two months ago, away at Brentford, with Everton set to visit Old Trafford after the current international break.
Cunha has been instrumental in this turnaround, featuring in all those matches. He came on as a substitute in the first before earning starts in the last four consecutive games. This sustained period of performance has directly impacted his international prospects.
Ancelotti's Trust and Personal Growth
Carlo Ancelotti has called up Cunha on each occasion since taking charge of the Brazil national side. Even after the forward withdrew from September's camp due to injury, he was immediately welcomed back into the fold. This consistent selection contrasts sharply with his experience under previous coaches, which notably included being left out of the squad for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
"Every moment in life is an opportunity to grow," Cunha told reporters during a press conference on Tuesday. "Not being selected for Qatar was painful, but it taught me to deal with setbacks differently." He added, "I've matured. The frustration then has driven me to where I am now."
The player speaks highly of his relationship with Ancelotti, stating, "Knowing that the manager trusts me to play in multiple positions is so important. 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."
Delivering at Club Level for International Reward
Cunha directly linked his situation at United to his place with Brazil. "Manchester United is a club that should always be at the top," he said. "I'm grateful to be playing in a side that's delivering and competing well." He was unequivocal about the requirement for international selection: "To earn a spot in the national team, you have to consistently show your worth at club level."
Looking ahead, the forward is optimistic about the new cycle with the national team. "This new cycle feels different, even with many players rotating in and out," Cunha concluded. "The direction is clear and everyone understands what we aim to achieve." With 17 caps and one goal for Brazil so far, his renewed club form at Manchester United appears to have solidified his status as a key part of Ancelotti's plans.
