ATLETICO MADRID forward Matheus Cunha found out on Monday the devastating news that he had not been included in Brazil’s World Cup squad.
The 23-year-old was included in Tite’s most recent selection back in September – and even featured in the 3-0 win over Ghana.
But he still missed out on the final cut for the Qatar tournament later this month as a host of world class talent got in there ahead of him.
Brazil‘s forward selection is made up of Antony, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, Neymar, Pedro, Raphinha, Richarlison, Rodrygo, and Vinicius Jr.
And Cunha’s poor form for Atletico Madrid has ultimately cost him a place in the squad.
The clip taken shortly after finding out the bad news was accompanied by a message from Cunha on social media.
It read: “People, to all of you who don’t stop sending messages, thank you. It was suffered, it was hurt and it’s part of it.
“Our selection is amazing and the competition is very big. Thank you from the heart for the support.”
Since joining Atletico in 2021, Cunha has registered just seven goals and eight assists in 53 appearances.
His struggles have come while the likes of Antony, Jesus, Martinelli, Raphinha and Richarlison have continued to improve.
HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON FOOTBALL
And football fans on social media have blamed Atletico boss Diego Simeone‘s style of play as the reason behind Cunha failing to make the World Cup.
Reacting on Twitter, one person said: “Made the wrong call, Simeone ball doesnât allow for players like him to thrive.
“Still young and got a bright future ahead of him if he can get out of Atleti.”
And another added: “Griezmann and Falcao were already doing better for Sociedad and Porto respectively.
“Simeone only improved Costa. Atletico is the wrong choice for Cunha.”
But a third asked if Cunha was ever good enough for Atletico altogether, saying: “The real question is whether Cunha has enough quality to play for a club like Atletico.
“In a club with players like Griezmann, Joao Felix, Morata, etc., it is normal for him to never play.
“Thank God for being able to play a few minutes with that shirt.”
