Wolves are gearing up for a challenging encounter against European hopefuls Chelsea on Monday night.
On Wednesday, Wolves suffered a 3-0 defeat to Newcastle, with Vitor Pereira’s side unable to match the quality of Alexander Isak.
One notable decision from Pereira was leaving Matheus Cunha out of the starting XI despite the 25-year-old returning from a two-match suspension.
Instead, Pereira opted for Hwang Hee-chan, whose disappointing performance saw him substituted at half-time for Cunha.
Cunha’s introduction immediately lifted Wolves’ attacking play, with the Brazilian adding much-needed energy and creativity in the final third.
His impact made him the obvious choice to start against Chelsea, but doubts over his fitness have now emerged.
Matheus Cunha misses training ahead of Chelsea clash:
During Friday’s pre-match press conference, Pereira confirmed via Liam Keen on X that Cunha missed training due to illness, casting uncertainty over his availability for Stamford Bridge.
The Wolves boss remains optimistic, saying Cunha could feature if he trains on Saturday. Wolves fans will recall Cunha’s brilliance the last time the sides met in West London, where he scored a hat-trick in a thrilling 4-2 win in February 2024.
That performance came during the peak of Gary O’Neil’s tenure when Wolves were chasing European qualification and progressing in the FA Cup.
Although O’Neil’s time at the club ended on a sour note in December following a 2-1 defeat to Ipswich, his influence in harnessing Cunha’s potential remains a standout legacy.
Wolves’ survival hinges on Matheus Cunha’s fitness:
Wolves fans will undoubtedly be concerned as they await news on Cunha’s availability. Dubbed “phenomenal” by teammate Max Kilman, the Brazilian is the central figure in Pereira’s attack and a key driver of Wolves’ survival hopes.
Cunha, who has attracted interest from Arsenal and other European giants, has proven himself invaluable this season.
Matheus Cunha’s stats over the past year:
Games: 20
Goals: 10
Assists: 4
Shots per 90: 3.15
Progressive passes per 90: 4.29
Successful take-ons per 90: 2.31
Shot-creating actions per 90: 3.49
These numbers highlight Cunha’s importance in every facet of Wolves’ attacking play. Without him, Wolves struggled noticeably against Nottingham Forest and in the first half against Newcastle, emphasizing just how crucial his presence is.
Fans will be hoping Cunha remains beyond the January transfer window. While a departure seems unlikely for now, he has yet to sign a new contract, despite an offer being on the table.
Ensuring his fitness and securing his future could be the difference between survival and relegation for Wolves this season.