Matheus Cunha has become an increasingly vital player for the Brazilian national team, offering versatility and adaptability that manager Carlo Ancelotti can leverage in various tactical scenarios. The Manchester United striker's importance has grown as Brazil navigates its evolving squad composition leading up to future tournaments.
Leiva noted the uncertainty surrounding Brazil's first-choice number nine heading into recent matches, with Ancelotti testing multiple forwards including Cunha, Igor Thiago, Endrick, Joao Pedro, and Richarlison. Injuries, however, sometimes force managers to discover effective combinations.
Brazil's attacking structure has seen adjustments, particularly on the wings. Raphinha, known for his dynamic movement across the attack and wings, was replaced by Rayan after sustaining a hamstring injury. Rayan, described as a player who stays wide on the right, creates more space for Cunha in his preferred central areas. This setup, with Vinicius Junior on one flank and Rayan on the other, allows Cunha to operate more independently, a style that suits his game.
Leiva also acknowledged that other options, such as Thiago, provide different qualities, potentially useful when chasing a game or facing a more physical opponent. Thiago's ability to occupy center-halves and hold up play offers another tactical dimension.
The availability of these varied options provides Ancelotti with a tactical flexibility that Leiva finds encouraging. "The important thing is that Ancelotti has options now and it will be interesting to see what he does next," Leiva stated.
Domestically, there is a growing sentiment that Cunha is the answer to Brazil's attacking needs. "Yes, other teams will know about him now, and what he does - but he is such a clever player, he will still not be easy to stop," Leiva added, expressing confidence in Cunha's ability to continue performing despite increased attention from opponents.