Wolves striker Matheus Cunha has reacted to the 2023/24 campaign on social media in response to the Old Gold’s defeat to Liverpool on the final day.
It was a disappointing end to an encouraging season for Wolves, who finished 14th in the table with 46 points, a five-point improvement from last term.
For all of the squad’s struggles both before and during the campaign, eclipsing the points tally from the 2022/23 calendar was an impressive feat for Gary O’Neil, who improved several areas in his first year at Molineux.
One thing in particular that the manager helped to boost in the squad was improving the individual performance of his players, with Matheus Cunha being one of those to relish in the former Bournemouth boss’ arrival.
The Brazilian had a difficult first season at Wolves after arriving from Atletico Madrid in December 2022 with a £35m price tag looming over his head, with his game significantly improving this term thanks to the work of O’Neil.
Matheus Cunha makes promise to Wolves after Liverpool defeat
Scoring twice in the 2022/23 season was not how Cunha would have wanted to present himself to the Premier League, seeing his numbers rocketing this campaign playing in the manager’s system.
Taking the pressure to act as Wolves’ number nine away from the Brazil international was pivotal for O’Neil and his forward, with his best form coming as his best role in the attack was realised.
Cunha ended the season having scored 12 goals in the Premier League, as well as recording seven assists in 32 appearances, showing just why the Old Gold paid big money to acquire him.
After the 2-0 defeat to Liverpool, Wolves’ number 12 took to Instagram to celebrate his achievements this season, penning a detailed message for fans, promising even more for next year.
Cunha’s caption under the photo of him securing his hattrick against Chelsea translated to:
‘Season has ended I am very grateful to God for everything. Very happy to play with all these teammates and for this team. Glad for working hard and achieving my goals.
‘Only you define who you are. Take a break and enjoy… May the next one be even better. Always learning and seeking growth.
‘12 goals in the best league in the world. 19 G/A, 22 G/A all comps. Thanks God. Thanks Wolves.’
Matheus Cunha needed Gary O’Neil to push on at Wolves
Last season, Cunha showed his ball-carrying strengths by consistently driving through defences when in possession, however, his end product so frequently let him down.
That, among other things, was what fans needed to see improved in the 2023/24 calendar, with his numbers proving that his best football in a Wolves shirt has come under O’Neil.
READ MORE: How Gary O’Neil has totally transformed one Matheus Cunha weakness at Wolves
Without Cunha’s goal contributions in the Premier League this season, Wolves wouldn’t have scored 38% of their goals, with the former Atletico Madrid ace contributing 19 goals and assists in the league.
There will be hope that the 25-year-old can fulfil his promise and reach even greater heights in seasons to come at Molineux, with his first full term with the club suggesting that there is more to see from the Brazilian.