Carlo Ancelotti preparing to make Matheus Cunha decision, Man Utd signing to overtake Tottenham player

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Manchester United new boy Matheus Cunha is being lined up for an opportunity.

Matheus Cunha clinched his big summer move to Manchester United on June 1, but his 2024/25 season is not yet over.

Cunha is still on international duty with Brazil, who are competing in the Conmebol World Cup qualifiers for 2026.

The £62.5 million signing could be set for a prominent role in Brazil’s upcoming game against Paraguay.

Matheus Cunha could start for Brazil

Matheus Cunha was a substitute in Brazil’s previous qualifying match last week, playing the final 26 minutes in the 0-0 draw against Ecuador.

With Brazil fourth in the table and struggling for form, it is likely they will make changes for Wednesday morning’s game against Paraguay.

Brazilian newspaper Globo report new boss Carlo Ancelotti has been preparing for Cunha to start the game.

He is one of two planned changes, with Raphinha returning from suspension to replace Estevao.

Globo report that in training, Cunha has been playing with the first XI ahead of Tottenham forward Richarlison.

The outlet report: “The formation gives more mobility to the Brazilian attack for the match.

“Cunha had already replaced Richarlison in Guayaquil, and Ancelotti has even spoken in interviews about the difference in characteristics between the competitors.

“While the Tottenham striker is more of a reference in the area, the [player] recently signed by United moves around so that Vini and Raphinha can attack the space closest to the goal.”

Different formation to Manchester United

Ruben Amorim plans to utilise Matheus Cunha as one of his number 10s in his 3-4-2-1 formation, the same system the Brazilian played for Wolves.

For Brazil, Cunha is set to showcase his versatility in a different 4-3-3 system as part of a three-man attack with Raphinha and Vinicius Jr.

This is a chance for Cunha to stake a claim ahead of the World Cup next year, and one he will be determined to take advantage of.

It could also be a test run in case he is asked to lead the line for United next season, with the Red Devils yet to sign a new striker, focusing currently on adding another deeper player, Bryan Mbeumo.

Manchester United fans meanwhile just want Cunha to come through injury-free, before his deserved break ahead of reporting for pre-season in July.

• Brazil take on Paraguay on June 11, 1.45am GMT