Matheus Cunha forced into statement after trophy claim amid Arsenal transfer links

Wolves captain Matheus Cunha, who is currently serving a four-game suspension, found himself having to backtrack after remarks he made while on international duty with Brazil caused a stir.

Discussing his aspirations, Cunha was reported as saying: "We are close to achieving our goal [of staying up]. But I have made it clear that I need to take the next step. I want to fight for titles for big things. I have potential."

The comments didn't sit well with the Wolves faithful or the club's hierarchy, report the Mirror, especially since he had recently received a pay bump and a contract extension until 2029.

The attacker has faced disciplinary issues this season, having been sent off twice, including incidents where he knocked glasses off a member of Ipswich's security team and during an FA Cup tie at Bournemouth.

In light of the controversy and ahead of a key clash with West Ham, Cunha took to social media to address and soothe the concerns of the Wolves supporters, saying: "I've come to talk about the noise about my name. I don't think people have the correct interpretation.

"The point was about Wolves, to show everyone how happy I am to play here, to play for this team and these team-mates, and to give back all the love they give to me. Like ambitious players, we want to play for something more. To put this club to another level and me and my team-mates will give our all to achieve this goal. I want to say 'thank you' for the support."

He clarified his stance, admitting: "I had a lot of offers [to leave in January] but I wouldn't feel well if I had done it. Some things you can't control but I couldn't leave the club in the middle of the season, in a difficult situation, in the relegation zone."

Cunha has been linked to Arsenal for some time, with the club said to have tabled an offer in January. With the Gunners' recent appointment of sporting director Andrea Berta, who originally signed Cunha for Atletico Madrid back in 2021, links to the player persist.

Cunha then went on loan to Wolves and after an impressive season, the club decided to activate their £44million buy option in summer 2023. Upon signing his new contract, which reportedly contains a £62.5million release clause, Cunha commented in January: "Of course, there was a lot of noise around what Matheus would do. I used my heart to make this decision, more than anything.

"It was my passion. I love being here. I feel so good here, with the love the fans give to me and my family. I always go to the pitch and try to give back.

"Everyone wants something more for their career, but I feel this is the moment to keep fighting and show everyone what we have."