| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---
| --- | --- | --- |
| Matheus Pereira
| 14 | 563 | 7 | 0 | 0.00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 13 | 4 | 0 | 381 | 19 | 1 |
| Matheus Pereira |
52 | 3,817 | 46 | 14 | 0.27 | 8 | 22 | 4 | 1 | 94 | 38 | 4 | 2,286 | 92 | 15 |
'Early Life and First Steps in Football
Roots in Belo Horizonte
Matheus Pereira was born in the heart of Minas Gerais, in Belo Horizonte, a city renowned for its rich footballing tradition. From a young age, he showed exceptional talent with the ball, beginning his journey at local clubs like Democrata and Filadélfia, prominent teams in the Minas Gerais countryside and Governador Valadares. His skill caught attention early, and at 11, he made a life-changing decision: to move to Portugal.
Move to Portugal
In 2007, Matheus and his family relocated to Europe, where he joined the youth academy of Trafaria, a modest Portuguese club. His refined technique and game vision quickly drew the attention of bigger clubs. At 15, Sporting Clube de Portugal’s scout José Meireles invited him to join the club’s youth team, marking the start of a promising career at one of Portugal’s biggest clubs.
Rise in Sporting’s Youth System
Debut with Sporting B
Matheus quickly stood out in Sporting’s youth setup. At just 17, on January 18, 2014, he debuted for Sporting B in Portugal’s Segunda Liga, coming on as a substitute in a 1-1 draw against Trofense. His ability to dribble, create plays, and score goals soon put him in the spotlight.
On March 7, 2015, Matheus scored his first goal for Sporting B, contributing to a thrilling 4-3 victory over Tondela. His consistent performances in the youth ranks led to his promotion to the first team at the start of the 2015-16 season under coach Jorge Jesus.
First-Team Appearances
Matheus made his first-team debut for Sporting on October 1, 2015, in a 1-1 draw against Beşiktaş in the Europa League. Despite his youth, he displayed confidence and technical quality, earning the trust of the coach and fans.
Loans and International Experience
Stint at Chaves
In the 2017-18 season, Matheus was loaned to G.D. Chaves in Portugal’s Primeira Liga. He played 30 matches, scoring eight goals and providing five assists. His ability to create plays and finish with precision was crucial to Chaves’ sixth-place finish, solidifying his reputation as a high-potential player.
Adventure in Germany with Nürnberg
On August 31, 2018, Matheus was loaned to 1. FC Nürnberg in Germany’s Bundesliga. His time there had ups and downs. He debuted on September 16, playing 61 minutes in a 1-1 draw against Werder Bremen. On March 30, 2019, he scored his first Bundesliga goal in a 3-0 win over Augsburg. Despite being nominated for the Bundesliga Rookie of the Season, Nürnberg’s relegation limited his overall impact.
West Bromwich Albion: Peak in England
On August 8, 2019, Matheus Pereira joined West Bromwich Albion in England’s Championship on loan, with a mandatory purchase clause if he played 30 matches. His 2019-20 season was exceptional: he featured in 43 games, scored eight goals, and provided 20 assists, playing a pivotal role in West Brom’s promotion to the Premier League. His flair in one-on-one situations and decisive passing won over fans, earning him the Player of the Season award with 65% of the vote.
On August 17, 2020, West Brom finalized his permanent transfer, signing him to a four-year contract. In the following Premier League season, he continued to shine. He debuted in the English top flight on September 13, 2020, playing the full 90 minutes against Leicester City. Six days later, he scored his first Premier League goal, a free kick, in a 5-2 loss to Everton. One of his most memorable moments came on April 3, 2021, when he scored twice against Chelsea, securing West Brom’s first win at Stamford Bridge since 1978.
Controversy and Move to Al Hilal
Conflict with West Brom
Despite his success, Matheus’s relationship with West Brom soured in the 2021-22 season. Manager Valérien Ismaël announced that Matheus would leave, accusing him of lacking commitment. Matheus responded on social media, confirming his desire to depart but calling the manager’s comments “disrespectful.” This controversy marked the end of his time in England.
New Chapter in Saudi Arabia
On August 6, 2021, Matheus transferred to Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia for an undisclosed fee. He debuted with a goal on February 6, 2022, in a 6-1 victory over Al Jazira in the FIFA Club World Cup. During his time at Al Hilal, he played 45 matches, scored three goals, and provided 15 assists, establishing himself as one of the team’s key playmakers.
Loan to Al Wahda
In January 2023, Matheus was loaned to Al Wahda in the United Arab Emirates until June. He played 10 matches, scored one goal, and provided four assists, showcasing his versatility and quality in a new environment.
Return to Brazil: Cruzeiro’s Idol
Arrival at Cruzeiro on Loan
In July 2023, Matheus Pereira returned to Brazil to join Cruzeiro Esporte Clube on loan from Al Hilal. He debuted on July 29, coming on in the final minutes of a 3-3 draw against Athletico Paranaense. His first goal for Cruzeiro came on November 30 in a 1-1 draw against the same opponent in the Brazilian Championship.
Permanent Signing and Number 10
With consistent performances in 2023, Matheus won over Cruzeiro fans. After midfielder Nikão’s departure, he inherited the iconic number 10 shirt. On May 27, 2024, Cruzeiro announced his permanent signing for €5.5 million (approximately R$31 million), one of the club’s biggest transfers. He signed a contract until mid-2026, with an option to extend.
In the 2024 season, Matheus was Cruzeiro’s standout, scoring nine goals and providing 13 assists in 48 games. His decisive performance in a 2-1 win over Cuiabá on June 13, with a goal and an assist, was a highlight. He ended the year as Mineirão’s top scorer and assist provider, earning the stadium’s Player of the Year award.
Brazilian National Team Call-Up
The pinnacle of Matheus’s career came in October 2024, when he was called up to the Brazilian national team to replace Lucas Paquetá in a World Cup qualifier against Peru on October 15. Wearing the number 8 shirt, he debuted as a substitute, fulfilling a childhood dream by representing Brazil.
Playing Style and Legacy
On-Field Characteristics
Matheus Pereira is known for his versatility, playing as an attacking midfielder or right winger. His refined technique, quick dribbling, and precise passing make him a creative and decisive player. He is also an exceptional free-kick taker, as demonstrated during his time at West Brom.
Impact at Cruzeiro
At Cruzeiro, Matheus became the team’s “maestro,” leading in goals and assists. Under coach Fernando Diniz, whose attacking style emphasizes short passes and creativity, Matheus found the perfect environment to shine.
Personal Life and Trivia
Matheus Pereira is married and has a daughter, often sharing family moments on social media. He also holds Portuguese citizenship, which aided his adaptation in Europe. Despite his international career, he has always emphasized his love for Belo Horizonte and Cruzeiro, the club he supported as a child.
Conclusion
Matheus Pereira is a story of resilience and talent. From Belo Horizonte to the world, he carved out a place in competitive leagues like the Premier League and Bundesliga before returning to Brazil to become a Cruzeiro idol. His 2024 call-up to the Brazilian national team marked a new milestone, cementing his status as one of Brazil’s top midfielders. His journey inspires young athletes and underscores the importance of persistence, skill, and passion for the game.
