Matheus Cunha Loses Cruzeiro Starting Role Amid Goalkeeper Shakeup

Matheus Cunha’s rapid decline at Cruzeiro reached a critical point this month. The 23-year-old goalkeeper, signed in 2025 as Cássio’s long-term heir, has been deemed expendable by coach Artur Jorge after failing to seize his starting opportunity and losing his place to 20-year-old Otávio.

What happened?

Cunha’s 2026 campaign began with promise but quickly unraveled. A knee injury during January preseason delayed his debut until March, when Cássio’s serious injury created a vacancy. Trusted to start nine consecutive Brasileirão matches, Cunha couldn’t cement his status. Weak distribution and inconsistent shot-stopping led to his benching in May, with Otávio’s superior form during Cruzeiro’s surge to second place in Série A sealing his demotion.

The club accelerated his exit by recalling Léo Aragão from a loan spell at Avaí. The 24-year-old, a Série B starter in 2025, rejoined Cruzeiro’s senior squad, pushing Cunha to fourth choice behind Otávio, Aragão, and U-20 prospect Vitor Lamounier.

Why it matters for Matheus Cunha

This reversal threatens Cunha’s career trajectory. At 23, he’s at a pivotal age for goalkeepers, yet his Cruzeiro stint has yielded just 14 senior appearances since 2023. His contract until 2028 offers stability, but the technical staff’s loss of faith suggests a loan or permanent transfer is likely before August’s deadline.

Cunha’s struggles contrast with Otávio’s rise. The 20-year-old’s 11 clean sheets in 17 2026 appearances: including a 3-0 win over Palmeiras on May 4: have made him Cruzeiro’s undisputed No. 1. Cássio, 39, remains on track to return from knee surgery in late August, further complicating Cunha’s path.

What comes next?

Cruzeiro’s hierarchy leaves little room for optimism. Omitted from the July 6 friendly against Defensor SC, Cunha watched as Lamounier played the second half. With Aragão’s return and the club’s focus on developing youth, Cunha’s best option may be a temporary move to regain match sharpness.

Potential suitors could emerge in Série B or Europe’s lower tiers. Cunha’s athleticism and 6’2” frame remain assets, but his decision-making must improve to revive his prospects. For now, the man once expected to succeed Cássio finds himself outside Cruzeiro’s plans entirely.