Matheus Cunha, a significant summer signing for Manchester United, has yet to find the net after six Premier League appearances. He asserts that despite a common perception, he isn`t a typical number nine but rather a midfielder. His previous seasons at Wolves saw him score 15 and 12 league goals respectively, but he had only reached double digits once before that, reinforcing his claim about his true playing style.
Reflecting on the scrutiny he faces, Cunha noted that playing for Manchester United naturally draws more attention to his on-field performance, leading to a clearer understanding of his role. He views this “weight” as a privilege, something that intensified after Brazil`s Tokyo Olympics success in 2021. He added that if bearing this pressure leads to becoming a champion, he`s content to endure some confusion regarding his preferred position.
During the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, Brazil secured the gold medal, defeating Spain in the final. Cunha, then close to joining Atletico Madrid, was instrumental, scoring against Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Spain.
A Midfielder by Trade, a Versatile Asset
Cunha clarified that he primarily played as a midfielder throughout his youth career, only encountering the 4-3-3 formation upon turning professional. He explained that he arrived at the national team with the “number 9” stereotype. He had played as a midfielder his whole life but then had to adapt to the 4-3-3 system prevalent in professional football, where traditional midfielder roles are often replaced by demands to play as a center-forward, winger, or an attacking “eight.”
Cunha, however, views this adaptability positively, seeing it as a source of valuable experience and versatility that benefits both him and any coach, especially in national team tournaments. He emphasized: “Having a versatile player is a huge help for any coach.”
Personal Satisfaction Amidst New Challenges
Despite a slow start in terms of goal-scoring at Manchester United, Cunha expressed profound personal satisfaction, highlighting the privilege of playing for one of the world`s largest clubs and securing a starting position for the Brazilian national team.
He further shared that he is gradually achieving the personal fulfillment he sought. While acknowledging the inherent human desire for constant improvement, he emphasized the importance of savoring his current achievements: the honor of representing the world`s top national team and one of its premier clubs. He also expressed joy over his family life, celebrating his healthy family and a new daughter, stating, “I`m enjoying all of this in a positive way.”
Manchester United currently sits 10th in the Premier League and will face Liverpool after the international break, aiming to regain their form. Cunha is eager to deliver a breakthrough performance against the Reds, seeking to make a significant impact following his transfer from Wolves.
Cunha acknowledged the elevated demands and new phase of his career, playing for both the national team and Manchester United. He detailed his intense efforts to adapt and learn, noting that despite only two months passing, the pressure to perform quickly due to the club`s situation and his status as a new signing makes it feel like he`s been there longer. He concluded that this accelerated adaptation process also helps him perform optimally with the national team.
