Matheus Cunha is a Brazilian forward, attacking midfielder, or winger. He plays for Manchester United and the Brazil national team. He was born on May 27, 1999.
He started his youth career at Coritiba in Brazil. At 18, he moved to Europe to join Swiss club Sion. He then played in the Bundesliga for RB Leipzig and Hertha BSC, before joining Atlético Madrid in August 2021. In January 2023, he moved to Wolverhampton Wanderers on loan, and the move was made permanent later. In August 2025, he signed with Manchester United for £62.5 million.
Cunha won a gold medal with Brazil’s under-23 team at the 2020 Summer Olympics. He made his senior international debut in September 2021 and was selected for Brazil’s squad at the 2026 World Cup.
Top 10 Things You Didn’t Know About Matheus Cunha
Born Hours After Manchester United’s Treble Win
Cunha was born on May 27, 1999. His birth occurred just hours after Manchester United completed their historic treble by winning the Champions League final. As a child, he and his friends used to call their local pitches “Old Trafford” while dreaming of one day playing there. Destiny perhaps.
Childhood Nickname: ‘Neymarzinho’
Long before he was known as “Toro” at Manchester United, Cunha was given a different nickname at school. Because of his dribbling ability and two-footedness, his classmates called him “Neymarzinho” (Little Neymar). He said: “My game is similar to his. I like to dribble, I can shoot with both feet.” A fitting comparison.
His Father Was a Maths and Science Teacher
Growing up in a working-class family in João Pessoa, Brazil, Matheus Cunha’s parents were determined to keep him grounded. His father, Carmelo, was a maths and science teacher. Despite his obvious football talent, his parents refused to let the game interfere with his schoolwork. Education always came first.
Mother Sold Raffle Tickets to Fund His Football
When Cunha passed a trial at São Paulo’s youth academy at age 13, his family faced financial strain. His mother, Luziana, sold raffle tickets to neighbours in their small town to pay for his bus fares and food. She also used the money to buy him his first pair of football boots. A mother’s sacrifice.
Spotted by Ronaldinho’s Former Agent
Cunha’s path to Europe began in 2017 when Eric Lovey, a former FIFA agent who had previously represented Brazilian legend Ronaldinho, spotted him playing for Coritiba’s youth team. Lovey quickly recognised his potential and helped facilitate his move to Europe. A connection to a Brazilian icon.
Moved to Europe at 18 Without Speaking the Language
At just 18, Matheus Cunha made the daunting 5,600-mile move from Brazil to Switzerland to join FC Sion. He arrived not speaking a word of the local language and completely alone, taking on the challenge entirely by himself. A brave step that kickstarted his European career. Alone in a new world.
Never Made a Senior Appearance for Coritiba
Despite coming through the youth ranks at Coritiba, Matheus Cunha was sold to Swiss club Sion in 2017 for just €110,000 without ever making a single senior appearance for the Brazilian club. The club needed the money to sign a defensive midfielder, a decision they likely regret now. A sale they’d love to undo.
Originally a Midfielder, Not a Striker
Despite being a goalscorer today, Matheus Cunha insists he is actually more of a midfielder. He played in midfield throughout his youth career and only adapted to a more attacking role when he encountered the 4-3-3 formation as a professional. He admits: “They eliminated the midfielder position, and you have to adapt.” A position change that worked.
Speaks Five Languages
Matheus Cunha’s international career has made him a polyglot. He is fluent in Portuguese, English, French, and Spanish, with a bit of Italian as well. His ability to communicate with almost everyone in the dressing room has made him a centrepiece of the Manchester United squad. A linguist on and off the pitch.
A Surfer Who Trains in Artificial Wave Pools
Cunha’s famous “surfing” celebration isn’t just for show, he’s a genuine surfer. He grew up in João Pessoa and learned to ride waves in Baía Formosa. Even in England, he doesn’t give up the hobby. He trains in artificial wave pools near Bristol. He says: “Surfing has become a big part of my life, a way to relax.” A surfer in a football world.
FAQs
Q. Which club does Matheus Cunha play for?
A. Cunha plays for Manchester United.
Q. When was Matheus Cunha born?
A. Cunha was born on May 27, 1999.
Q. Which Brazilian club did Cunha start his youth career with?
A. Cunha started his youth career at Coritiba.
Q. What did Cunha win with Brazil at the 2020 Olympics?
A. Cunha won a gold medal with Brazil’s under-23 team.
Q. When did Cunha make his senior debut for Brazil?
A. Cunha made his senior debut in September 2021.
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