Manchester United have reportedly reached an agreement with Brazil's football federation to give Matheus Cunha a rest during the closing weeks of the Premier League season, ensuring he is fully fit for this summer's World Cup.
Cunha's return to form
Cunha, who returned from injury to score in United's thrilling 3-2 victory over Liverpool at Old Trafford on Sunday, had missed the previous match against Brentford. His goal helped secure United's place in next season's Champions League with three games remaining.
According to ESPN Brasil, United and the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) have agreed to limit Cunha's playing time in the club's final three Premier League fixtures. This is intended to maximise his recovery and ensure he is at peak fitness for the World Cup, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Remaining fixtures
United's remaining matches include a home game against Nottingham Forest, as well as away trips to Sunderland and Brighton. It is not yet clear how much playing time Cunha will receive in these matches.
If the report is accurate, the return to fitness of Patrick Dorgu could provide manager Michael Carrick with the option to rest Cunha on the left side of the forward line.
Cunha's debut season
Cunha joined United from Wolves last summer in a deal worth £62.5 million. He has scored nine goals in his debut season at Old Trafford. Reflecting on his performance after the Liverpool match, Cunha said: "It's like I said, I feel like football is representing life. Of course, I have hard moments and everyone needs to be strong. We need to wait for the good moments and then work so hard, and I feel that it's only the start of the journey."
He added: "But I have so many things to learn, so many things to continue, and I also have to help the team to achieve some level that I want to achieve in particular, and of course, help the group to achieve together."
