MAN United goal hero Matheus Cunha honed his killer instinct on the pitch – by taking up Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
is being trained by former world and European Jiu Jitsu champion Lucio Rodrigues.
Matheus Cunha honed his killer instinct on the pitch – by taking up Brazilian Jiu JitsuCredit: Getty
began training with Lucio – nicknamed Lizard – in December and the training focuses on “technical, controlled” sessions, to support performance, balance and mobility.
Lucio, 45, a black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, gears Cunha’s sessions with an emphasis on safety and injury prevention so he doesn’t get into hot water with United bosses.
And Jiu Jitsu is widely regarded as a disciplined martial art and a controlled outlet for aggression, which helps with emotional regulation.
In an Instagram post Lucio, a 6ft 4in Jiu Jitsu super-heavyweight and former MMA fighter, said it was a “true privilege” to share his knowledge with , who he described as a “genuine role model both on and off the mats”.
He added: “Having his trust, and the trust of his family, training with me is something I deeply value and take great pride in.”
Cunha also posted a clip of him receiving a belt from Lucio during a training session.
Cunha has been a huge hit at since his arrival last summer.
But at previous club he garnered a reputation for uncontrolled aggression on the pitch after a string of violent incidents.
He was charged by in March last year after being shown a straight red in his former club .
Cunha was charged with “acting in an improper manner” after he was sent off for clashing with Cherries defender in the final minute of extra time.
He lashed out at Kerkez three times – fighting and kicking out at him before aiming a headbutt when the Hungary full-back got back to his feet.
The FA slapped him with a four match ban and a £50,000 fine.
And in December, 2024 Cunha was suspended for two games and fined £80,000 after clashing with a member of security and grabbing his glasses from his face following the visitors’ 2-1 win at Molineux.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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