9 Interesting Facts About Matheus Cunha - The Brazilian Gem
- Think Football Ideas
- 5 hours ago
- 5 min read
Full Name: Matheus Santos Carneiro da Cunha
Date of Birth: 27 May 1999
Place of Birth: João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil
Height: 1.84 m (6 ft 0 in)
Position(s): Forward, second striker, winger
Current Club: Wolverhampton Wanderers
Jersey Number: 10
Matheus Cunha's journey has been anything but conventional. From a promising talent in Brazil to a dynamic forward in the Premier League, he’s proven himself to be a maverick, a player with unpredictable genius and raw emotion.
His ability to shine under pressure, his progression through various leagues, and his undeniable talent have made him one of the most exciting and intriguing forwards in the English top-flight today. Whether it's his temperament, technical ability, or hunger for success, Cunha has the potential to continue making waves in the Premier League and beyond.
Here Are 9 Interesting Facts About Matheus Cunha - The Brazilian Gem
1. Cunha was born in João Pessoa, Brazil
Cunha's birthplace in João Pessoa, Brazil, is known for its coastal beauty and rich football culture. But what truly shapes his story is his journey from a small city to becoming one of football's more intriguing talents. In interviews, Cunha emphasises his roots and how his family remains his anchor, keeping him grounded as he rises through the ranks of football.
2. As a child, he played futsal in Recife before switching to football
Before Cunha ever kicked a full-sized football, he was honing his skills on smaller futsal courts in Recife, a Brazilian city famed for its strong futsal heritage. Futsal was a key building block for Cunha, refining his technical skills, dribbling, and close ball control.
He often credits this foundation as integral to his smooth style of play, which includes clever footwork and creative decision-making in tight spaces.
3. He played youth football for Coritiba before joining Swiss club Sion
Cunha's transition from Brazil to Europe began when he joined Swiss club Sion at age 18 after impressing scouts at the prestigious Dallas Cup. Before that, he had developed his potential in the youth ranks of Coritiba, a club in his native Brazil, where his flair and playmaking abilities began to shine.
This move to Sion marked his first big step onto the international stage, setting him up for his later moves to Bundesliga clubs and beyond.
4. He was the Top scorer at the 2019 Toulon and the 2020 CONMEBOL Pre-Olympic Tournament
Cunha wasn't just crucial for Brazil's under-23 team during the 2020 CONMEBOL Pre-Olympic Tournament, he finished as the top scorer at the 2019 Toulon Tournament. His performances in these competitions were so compelling that they helped secure Brazil's qualification for the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo.
Cunha’s blistering form earned him a call-up to the national Olympic squad, where he would go on to win gold in 2021, scoring three goals in five appearances. By the time he finished his under-23 career, Cunha had an impressive 21 goals in 24 games for Brazil's under-23s, a stellar strike rate that made him one of the most exciting prospects in South American football.
5. His stints at RB Leipzig, Hertha BSC, and Atlético Madrid prepared him for the Premier League
Matheus Cunha's journey through RB Leipzig, Hertha BSC, and Atlético Madrid was the perfect training ground for his Premier League adventure. At Leipzig, he adapted to the fast, high-intensity nature of German football.
His time at Hertha BSC added valuable Bundesliga experience, while Atlético Madrid under Diego Simeone's tutelage refined his tactical discipline and pressing abilities. Each move contributed to Cunha's maturity as a player, ultimately preparing him for the physical and demanding Premier League.
6. He is the 2nd player in Wolves' History to score a Premier League hat-trick
When Cunha scored a Premier League hat-trick away at Stamford Bridge against Chelsea on the 4th of February 2024, he became only the second player ever to do so for Wolves, following in the footsteps of Diogo Jota — a milestone moment in his Premier League journey.
It was a stunning moment in his Premier League career, and it highlighted his ability to thrive in high-pressure situations. His hat-trick was a testament to his growing influence at Molineux, marking a major milestone in his journey with Wolves.
7. He is a passionate player and can be quite combustible
Cunha’s passion for the game is undeniable; it’s what makes him both thrilling to watch and at times, unpredictable. His fiery temper has led to moments of volatility, and he's served two major suspensions during his time at Wolves.
Whether it's frustration after a tough defeat or his ambitious drive to always want more from himself, Cunha’s emotional edge adds intensity to his play. As his Wolves teammate Nelson Semedo notes, Cunha's drive is what makes him great, though it sometimes requires calming down to ensure he doesn't overstep the emotional line.
8. He is the 4th opposition player to score a Premier League hat-trick at Stamford Bridge
Cunha's ability to make an impact on the biggest stages was further underscored by his superb hat-trick at Stamford Bridge, which made him only the fourth opposition player in Premier League history to achieve such a feat.
His performance rattled Chelsea and cemented his reputation as a dangerous player in one of the most iconic football venues in England. The hat-trick demonstrated Cunha’s capability to deliver when it matters, giving Wolves a memorable result and confirming his talent.
9. Cunha finished as Wolves’ top scorer for the 2023/24 campaign – his first full season at Molineux
In his first full season at Molineux, Cunha finished as Wolves’ top scorer for the 2023/24 campaign. Despite facing challenges adjusting to the Premier League and a position away from his natural No.9 role, Cunha found the back of the net 14 times in 36 appearances, proving his worth to the team.
His impressive goal tally contributed to Wolves’ competitive edge as they escaped relegation, and his rise as a focal point in attack underlined his growing importance in the squad.
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