Wolverhampton Wanderers manager Vitor Pereira has publicly criticised star forward Matheus Cunha following his attitude in the 3-1 defeat to Chelsea on Monday.
Pereira admitted he was unhappy with the forward's behaviour during the clash at Stamford Bridge, labelling his body language as a concern.
Although the 25-year-old has netted 10 goals and provided four assists in 21 Premier League appearances this season, the manager was less than impressed by his talisman's contribution in their latest defeat.
Cunha, who has been linked with January moves to Arsenal, Manchester United and Nottingham Forest, endured a subdued performance in West London, failing to impact the game at a ground where he bagged a hat-trick last season.
The forward's uncertain future at Molineux has also added to the intrigue, with reports suggesting that he has yet to formally sign a new long-term contract with Wolves amid interest from top clubs.
Pereira questions Cunha's attitude after defeat
© Imago
Speaking to reporters in his post-match press conference, Pereira did not hold back in his criticism of Cunha's demeanour during the game.
"I had this conversation in the dressing room," Pereira revealed. "He can be frustrated because he wants to win, but everybody in the team wants to win.
"I don't like this body language. I want someone as a captain trying to help the team – running, suffering, fighting together. This is something I can understand. Next time, I will not understand."
When pressed as to whether the January speculation may have distracted Cunha, Pereira added: "It's human that the players start to be a little bit... it's normal in football."
This public criticism comes at a time when Cunha's performances have generally been a bright spot in Wolves' season, with the West Midlanders struggling to pull away from the relegation zone, having failed to win any of their last four league matches.
However, given the speculation surrounding his future, the feeling is that wanting a move away may have impacted his recent displays, with the Brazilian failing to find the net since the winter window was declared open.
Uncertainty surrounding Cunha's future
© Imago
Cunha has been linked with a high-profile move this month, while Wolves are said to have offered him a new long-term deal as a reward for his impressive season, given he has two-and-a-half years left on his current one.
However, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano claims that the forward's situation remains 'one to watch' as the January window nears its conclusion.
The Brazilian joined Wolves initially on loan from Atletico Madrid in January 2023 before making the move permanent for £35m last summer, and in 78 appearances for the club across all competitions, Cunha has scored 26 goals, establishing himself as a vital part of the squad.
Despite reports of a contract extension, doubts persist, with top clubs circling to secure his signature – Arsenal's interest, in particular, could tempt the forward, given the Gunners' rise under Mikel Arteta.
For now, Wolves will hope Cunha can return to his best form and help the team navigate what promises to be a pivotal second half of the season.
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