Matheus Cunha secured his status as a high-value transfer target in August 2025 when Manchester United finalized his acquisition for a fee of £62.5 million. A versatile offensive presence, he transitioned through the professional ranks in Switzerland, Germany, Spain, and England, eventually becoming a critical component for both his club sides and the Brazilian national team.
Early Career and European Emergence
Born in João Pessoa, Brazil, on 27 May 1999, Cunha developed his early skills in futsal before shifting to organized football. He initially played within the Coritiba system. In July 2017, after attracting attention at the Dallas Cup, he moved to Switzerland to join FC Sion. His breakthrough in European football followed a move to the Bundesliga, where he signed with RB Leipzig in June 2018. His 2018–19 campaign in the UEFA Europa League yielded six goals, and his long-range strike against Bayer Leverkusen earned a nomination for the FIFA Puskás Award.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Establishment in Top-Tier Leagues
In January 2020, Cunha transferred to Hertha BSC. His performance in Germany facilitated a move to La Liga with Atlético Madrid in August 2021 for a reported €30 million. By January 2023, he began a tenure with Wolverhampton Wanderers. During the 2023–24 Premier League season, he recorded 14 goals, including a hat-trick against Chelsea in February 2024. He followed this with a career-best 15 league goals during the 2024–25 season. Despite an off-field disciplinary incident in December 2024 that resulted in an FA fine and suspension, his productivity remained high, leading to his eventual move to Manchester United.
International Representation
Cunha played a vital role in Brazil's under-23 setup, finishing as the top scorer in both the 2019 Toulon Tournament and the 2020 CONMEBOL Pre-Olympic Tournament. He contributed to the Brazil team that claimed gold at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. His senior international debut occurred in September 2021 against Chile. He later represented his country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he scored twice against Haiti in June 2026.
Playing Profile
Operating as a forward, attacking midfielder, or winger, Cunha is defined by his ability to carry the ball and navigate tight spaces. His tactical utility lies in his capacity to facilitate transitions and deliver accurate long-range shots. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated consistency in contributing both goals and assists.
Fast facts
- Born: 27 May 1999, João Pessoa, Brazil
- Positions: Forward, attacking midfielder, winger
- Olympic Success: Gold medal, 2020 Summer Olympics
- Transfer Fee: £62.5 million to Manchester United
- Bundesliga Goal of the Month: April 2019
- Senior Debut: 2 September 2021 vs. Chile
- FA Hat-trick: Chelsea, 4 February 2024
Questions readers ask
Which major clubs has Matheus Cunha played for?
He has played for Sion, RB Leipzig, Hertha BSC, Atlético Madrid, Wolverhampton Wanderers, and Manchester United.
Did Cunha win an Olympic medal?
Yes, he won a gold medal with the Brazil under-23 team at the 2020 Summer Olympics.
