Manchester United forward Matheus Cunha has received the ultimate compliment from Brazil legend Ronaldo Nazario following a spectacular start to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Cunha arrived at Old Trafford last summer after catching the eye with Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The Red Devils were looking to add more guile and goals to their forward line and made the Brazilian their first signing of the summer. That decision turned out to be a masterstroke, as Cunha took no time to settle at the Theatre of Dreams.
The 27 year old played a starring role in United’s third-place finish in the Premier League table. Cunha ended the campaign with 10 goals and four assists to his name from 35 games in all competitions.
Matheus Cunha stats: 2025/26 Season
| Competition | Appearances | Starts | Goals | Assists | Yellow Cards | Red Cards | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premier League | 33 | 29 | 10 | 4 | 4 | - | 2,503' |
| FA Cup | 1 | 1 | - | - | - | - | 90' |
| EFL Cup | 1 | 1 | - | - | - | - | 90' |
| Total | 35 | 31 | 10 | 4 | 4 | - | 2,683' |
Source: Transfermarkt.
The Brazilian’s efforts saw him included in Carlo Ancelotti’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and the player has been indispensable for the Selecao so far.
Cunha’s blistering start to World Cup
Cunha was on the bench for Brazil’s group-stage opener against Mexico, which ended in a 1-1 draw. The United No. 10 replaced Lucas Paqueta in the 61st minute and had a decent cameo, which was enough to convince his manager.
Ancelotti opted to include Cunha in his starting XI for the second group-stage game against Haiti, and the player did not disappoint. Wearing the No. 9 shirt for his national team, the former Wolves forward scored a brace to inspire a 3-0 victory.
His performance saw him retain his place in the starting XI ahead of Igor Thiago for the final group-stage game against Scotland. Cunha was on the scoresheet once again as Brazil ended the group stages with a thumping 3-0 win to secure passage to the knockouts.
Cunha is already proving why United moved early to secure his services last summer. He has now won a fan in O Fenomeno.
Ronaldo hails United star
Following Wednesday’s commanding win over Scotland, Ronaldo took to social media to share a picture of him celebrating the first of his brace against Germany in the 2002 World Cup final. He also included a picture of Cunha celebrating his goal against Scotland, pointing out the similarities between the two.
O Fenomeno wrote: “The last time a nine celebrated like this, you know what happened.”
Ronaldo’s words had Cunha buzzing, and the United man soon responded to the post, commenting: “My idol! I’m speechless with pride.”
Referring to the shirt number, Cunha continued: “She’ll always be yours. And if you want to drop by to help out – I just wanted to take a look at something…”
Cunha is likely to retain his place in the starting XI when Brazil return to action in the Round of 32, where they could face Japan, who are likely to finish second in Group F.
Final Thoughts
United fans will be delighted with their No. 10’s showing at the World Cup, which will give them hope ahead of a crucial season. Only Lionel Messi (5), Kylian Mbappe (4), Erling Haaland (4) and Vinicius Junior (4) have scored more goals than Cunha, who is proving he could become indispensable under Michael Carrick next campaign.
Recognition from a legend of the game 😮💨🇧🇷
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) June 25, 2026
Featured image Dan Mullan via Getty Images
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