Matheus Pereira: The Journey of a Brazilian Star
Matheus Fellipe Costa Pereira, born on May 5, 1996, in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, is one of the most talented players in Brazilian football today. A skillful attacking midfielder, he has captivated fans in Brazil and abroad with his vision, precise passing, and ability to decide matches. His journey, marked by challenges, resilience, and moments of glory, is a story of dedication to the sport. This article explores the life and career of Matheus Pereira, from his roots in Minas Gerais to his rise as an idol at Cruzeiro and his call-up to the Brazilian national team.
Childhood and Early Steps in Football
Roots in Belo Horizonte
Matheus Pereira was born in the heart of Minas Gerais, a region renowned for its passion for football. Coming from a humble family, he began playing street football in Belo Horizonte, dreaming of following in the footsteps of idols like Ronaldo and Ronaldinho Gaúcho. As a child, he displayed natural talent, dribbling with ease and showing impressive ball control. At seven, he joined the youth academy of Democrata, a traditional club from the Minas Gerais countryside, where he began honing his skills.
Move to Portugal
At 11, Matheus’s life took an unexpected turn when his family moved to Portugal in search of better opportunities. The cultural shift was challenging, but football became his bridge to adaptation. In Portugal, he started playing for Trafaria, a small club in the Lisbon area. His talent caught the eye of scouts, and at 15, José Meireles from Sporting Clube de Portugal invited him to join the club’s youth academy, marking the start of his professional journey.
Rise at Sporting Clube de Portugal
Debut with Sporting B
At Sporting, Matheus quickly stood out. In 2014, at just 17, he debuted for Sporting’s B team in Portugal’s Segunda Liga, coming on as a substitute in a 1-1 draw against Trofense. His first season was a learning experience, but he soon showcased his potential. On March 7, 2015, he scored his first professional goal, contributing to a thrilling 4-3 victory over Tondela. His ability to create plays and finish with precision put him on the radar of the first team.
Promotion to the First Team
In September 2015, under coach Jorge Jesus, Matheus was promoted to Sporting’s senior squad. His official debut came on October 1 in a 1-1 draw against Beşiktaş in the Europa League. Despite his young age, he showed confidence on the pitch, holding his own against experienced opponents. During the 2015-16 season, he split time between the first team and Sporting B, gaining valuable experience and maturing as a player.
Loans and International Experience
Chaves: First Breakthrough
Seeking more playing time, Matheus was loaned to Chaves in Portugal’s Primeira Liga for the 2017-18 season. This period marked his true breakout. In 30 matches, he scored eight goals and provided five assists, helping Chaves secure a solid sixth-place finish. His dribbling, playmaking, and finishing caught the attention of European clubs, establishing him as a rising Brazilian talent.
Nürnberg: Adventure in Germany
In August 2018, Matheus was loaned to Nürnberg in Germany’s Bundesliga after a public disagreement with Sporting’s coach José Peseiro. Despite a tough start, he adapted to the physical and tactical demands of German football. He debuted on September 16 in a draw against Werder Bremen and scored his first Bundesliga goal on March 30, 2019, in a 3-0 win over Augsburg. Although Nürnberg was relegated, Matheus was nominated for the Bundesliga’s Rookie of the Season, finishing with three goals and two assists in 21 games.
West Bromwich Albion: Conquering England
Loan and Permanent Transfer
In August 2019, Matheus joined West Bromwich Albion in England, initially on loan with an option to buy. His 2019-20 Championship season was exceptional: in 43 matches, he scored eight goals and provided 20 assists, playing a key role in West Brom’s promotion to the Premier League. His performances earned him the Player of the Season award, with 65% of the fan vote. In August 2020, West Brom exercised the buy option, signing him to a four-year contract.
Premier League and Memorable Goals
In the 2020-21 Premier League season, Matheus debuted against Leicester City. Despite a loss, he quickly made his mark, scoring a stunning free kick against Everton in the next match. His standout moment came on April 3, 2021, when he scored twice in a 5-2 victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, ending Thomas Tuchel’s unbeaten streak as Chelsea’s manager. In total, he played 77 games for West Brom, scoring 20 goals and providing 26 assists, becoming a fan favorite.
Controversy and Move to Saudi Arabia
Conflict with the Coach
In August 2021, controversy marked Matheus’s exit from West Brom. The new manager, Valérien Ismaël, publicly stated that Matheus was not committed to the club. Matheus responded on social media, confirming his desire to leave but criticizing the manager’s comments as “disrespectful.” This led to his transfer to Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia for an undisclosed fee.
Time at Al Hilal
At Al Hilal, Matheus continued to shine. On February 6, 2022, he scored his first goal for the club in a 6-1 rout of Al Jazira in the Club World Cup. In 45 games, he scored three goals and provided 15 assists, winning over Saudi fans with his creative style. In 2023, he was loaned to Al Wahda in the UAE, where he played 10 matches, scored one goal, and provided four assists.
Return to Brazil: Cruzeiro’s Idol
Arrival on Loan
In July 2023, Matheus returned to Brazil to play for Cruzeiro, his hometown club, on loan from Al Hilal. He debuted on July 29 in a 3-3 draw against Athletico Paranaense. He quickly became a key player, taking the number 10 shirt after Nikão’s departure. On November 30, he scored his first goal for Cruzeiro in a 1-1 draw against Athletico.
Permanent Signing and Stardom
In May 2024, Cruzeiro signed Matheus permanently for €5.5 million, one of the club’s biggest transfers. He signed until 2026, with an option to extend. In the 2024 season, he excelled, scoring nine goals and providing 13 assists in 48 games. His decisive performance in a 2-1 win over Cuiabá, with a goal and an assist, was a highlight. In December 2024, he was named Mineirão’s Player of the Year, leading Cruzeiro in goals and assists.
Brazilian National Team
First Call-Up
Matheus’s talent earned him a call-up to the Brazilian national team in October 2024, summoned by Dorival Júnior to replace Lucas Paquetá in World Cup qualifiers. He debuted on October 15 against Peru, coming off the bench wearing the number 8 shirt. Despite limited minutes, his quality passing left a positive impression.
Future with the Canarinha
Under Fernando Diniz, a coach known for his attacking style, Matheus is poised to become a key player for Brazil. His versatility, vision, and ability to deliver in crucial moments make him ideal for Diniz’s dynamic system. Fans are already dreaming of his performances at the 2026 World Cup.
Playing Style and Legacy
On-Field Characteristics
Matheus Pereira is a complete attacking midfielder. Standing at 1.75m, he combines refined technique with tactical intelligence. His left foot is lethal for mid-range shots and free kicks, while his ability to dribble in tight spaces dismantles defenses. His vision allows him to create opportunities with precise passes and decisive assists.
Impact at Cruzeiro
At Cruzeiro, Matheus became an instant idol. His connection with the fans, strengthened by his Belo Horizonte roots, has made him a symbol of hope for a club aiming to reclaim its prominence in Brazilian football. His leadership on the pitch and humility off it have won over even the most demanding supporters.
Personal Life and Dreams
Off the field, Matheus is described as reserved yet charismatic. He maintains close ties with his family and often speaks about the importance of his Minas Gerais roots. In interviews, he has shared that his biggest dreams are to win a major title with Cruzeiro and play in a World Cup for Brazil.
Conclusion
Matheus Pereira’s journey is a story of talent, perseverance, and love for football. From Belo Horizonte to Europe’s pitches, Saudi Arabia, and a triumphant return to Cruzeiro, he has proven that hard work and passion can overcome any obstacle. At 29, Matheus is at the peak of his career, ready to write new chapters with Cruzeiro’s blue jersey and Brazil’s iconic yellow. For fans, he is more than a player—he embodies the dream of every kid who ever kicked a ball on the streets of Minas Gerais.
