Matheus Cunha Returns — But Do Wolves Really Need Him Anymore?
Matheus Cunha is back and available for selection for Wolverhampton Wanderers after serving a four-game suspension — but his return comes with more questions than answers. The Brazilian forward, dismissed in ugly fashion during an FA Cup tie against Bournemouth after an altercation with Milos Kerkez, was not only handed a red card but was also hit with a further improper conduct charge by the FA. The result? A four-game ban that many Wolves fans feared would damage their club’s form during a critical stretch of the season.
Fast forward a few weeks, and the reality is far from what was expected. In Cunha’s absence, Wolves have looked sharp, focused, and arguably more balanced as a team. They’ve picked up 10 points from four matches — three wins and a draw — and now sit 12 points above the relegation zone, virtually safe from the drop with just seven matches remaining in the campaign.
That turnaround has changed the narrative around Cunha dramatically. What was once seen as a major setback has now sparked debate: Should Matheus Cunha walk straight back into the starting lineup? Or should Wolves move forward without him?
Alan Shearer’s recent comments shed light on what many fans are already thinking. Speaking candidly, the Premier League legend admitted he believes Cunha may no longer be central to Wolves’ plans — either now or in the future. Shearer noted, “He’s got Cunha, who’s a very, very good player, but he knows that he’s a bit of a maverick and he’s been suspended for the last four games. They’ve won three and drawn one.” Shearer also speculated that Cunha’s contract may have been structured with a release clause designed to trigger a future sale, adding, “So he’ll leave in the summer and someone will buy him. So I don’t suspect he’ll play a big part in what Wolves do in the future.”
Form Without Him Speaks Volumes
You can’t argue with results. Wolves have found a rhythm without Cunha in the side. The team’s recent form has been their best patch of the season, suggesting that Vitor Pereira may have stumbled upon a tactical setup that works better without the volatile Brazilian in the mix. The goals have been shared more evenly, the midfield has looked more in control, and there’s been a noticeable improvement in defensive stability.
While Cunha is a technically gifted attacker with flair and agility, his unpredictability — both in terms of creativity and temperament — can be a double-edged sword. In a tightly contested league like the Premier League, where every point matters and every mistake is punished, consistency and discipline are vital. That’s something Cunha has failed to offer on a regular basis.
Transfer Speculation Swirling
What makes this situation even more complicated is that Cunha’s future at Molineux looks increasingly uncertain. Reports this week suggest that his agent has flown into England to hold talks regarding a potential summer move, with Manchester United understood to be among the interested clubs. The Red Devils are reportedly keeping close tabs on the forward as they prepare for a summer squad rebuild.
Cunha’s £62.5 million release clause makes him one of Wolves’ most valuable assets. If United or another big club comes calling, Wolves would almost certainly consider cashing in, especially if they’re confident they can reinvest that money wisely. With the club’s top-flight status now secure, the remaining fixtures this season may serve less as a competitive grind and more as a springboard to prepare for life post-Cunha.
The Bigger Picture for Wolves and Pereira
So what should Vitor Pereira do now?
From a purely footballing standpoint, there’s no denying Cunha’s talent. He’s explosive on the ball, can beat defenders with ease, and has the kind of flair that’s rare in the modern game. On his day, he’s capable of producing moments of magic that can change a game. But those days have been too few and far between. Worse, his recent disciplinary issues have cost Wolves dearly.
The smarter move might be to use the final seven games to focus on players who are part of the long-term vision for the club. Whether that means giving more minutes to promising academy players, testing out different combinations up front, or building cohesion in a Cunha-less system, the goal should be long-term growth. Starting Cunha in every remaining game doesn’t really serve that purpose, especially if his departure is already being planned behind the scenes.
Furthermore, the fans have made their voices heard. Social media has been abuzz with supporters praising the team’s performances in Cunha’s absence and questioning whether he deserves to walk straight back into the side. For a fanbase that values hard work, discipline, and commitment, Cunha’s recent actions haven’t exactly helped his case.
What Happens Against Spurs?
The next test comes in the form of Tottenham Hotspur — a side chasing European qualification and never easy to beat, especially in North London. This is exactly the kind of match where Cunha could either be a game-changer… or a liability. His explosive style could trouble Spurs’ high line and force mistakes, but if he loses his cool or fails to track back defensively, Wolves could be left exposed.
Will Pereira roll the dice? Will he try to squeeze one last burst of magic from Cunha before a likely summer departure? Or will he prioritize stability, consistency, and long-term planning?
It’s a delicate balance — and how Pereira manages it will reveal a great deal about his managerial instincts and long-term vision for Wolves.
A Farewell on the Horizon
All signs suggest that Matheus Cunha’s time at Molineux is coming to an end. His talent is undeniable, but talent alone isn’t enough in a league where attitude, discipline, and chemistry are just as important. Wolves have shown they can perform—and even thrive—without him. The club has evolved, and Cunha may soon find that he’s no longer the focal point he once was.
Whether he features sporadically or plays a farewell cameo or two, his Wolves career appears to be winding down. And judging by recent performances, that might not be a bad thing.
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