Matheus Fellipe Costa Pereira

Matheus Pereira began his footballing education at local clubs in Belo Horizonte before moving to Portugal at age 14 to join the Sporting CP youth academy. He spent four years in the academy, where his technical skills were refined before his professional debut in 2014.

Matheus Pereira began his professional career at Sporting CP before moving to West Bromwich Albion in 2019. In England, he became a superstar, leading the club to Premier League promotion and recording double-digit goals and assists in the top flight. In 2021, he moved to Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League, where he won the AFC Champions League. In July 2023, he fulfilled a personal dream by joining Cruzeiro on loan, a move that was made permanent in July 2024.

Since joining Cruzeiro, Matheus has been the centerpiece of the team's attack. In January 2026, the club officially announced his contract extension until December 2028, highlighted by an emotional video featuring an orchestra to symbolize his role as the 'conductor'. During the 2025-2026 season, he has been in exceptional form, recording 2 goals and 2 assists in 13 matches as of May 15, 2026. On May 12, 2026, he delivered a masterclass in a 1-0 win against Goiás, earning a match-high 8.3 rating. He remains the most influential player under coach Tite, helping Cruzeiro compete for the Série A title and continental honors.

On the international stage, Matheus earned his senior Brazil debut in late 2024 following his dominant domestic form. Throughout the 2026 World Cup qualifying cycle, he has been a consistent member of the national team pool, providing Ancelotti with a creative alternative to established stars. His ability to link the midfield and attack has been a highlight of his recent call-ups. He is currently being considered for the final 2026 FIFA World Cup squad, with the official announcement expected on May 18, 2026. His experience in high-pressure matches is viewed as a vital asset for the Seleção.

By May 2026, he has reached over 350 professional appearances and 100 senior career goal contributions across Portugal, England, Saudi Arabia, and Brazil. His market value remains significant, reflecting his status as one of the best playmakers in South America. His tactical growth under various managers has seen him become a more complete player, contributing both defensively and offensively. He continues to focus on maintaining his high levels of concentration as he leads Cruzeiro through the most important phase of their modern era.

Matheus Pereira was born and raised in Belo Horizonte and has been a lifelong supporter of Cruzeiro, a connection that heavily influenced his decision to return to Brazil. He is known for his professional, focused, and modest personality, often credited by his coaches for his exemplary discipline. He is a devoted husband to Nathália Perdigão, and the couple has a son. He frequently credits his family for providing the emotional stability necessary to sustain his global career.

He currently resides in Belo Horizonte and has fully embraced the local culture and the pressure of representing his childhood club. Off the pitch, Matheus is an avid fan of music and enjoy spending his downtime with a close circle of friends. He is a brand ambassador for several sports and lifestyle companies, reflecting his status as a top-tier Brazilian athlete. He is fluent in Portuguese and English, and has achieved a high level of proficiency in Spanish and basic Arabic. His humble attitude and dedication to his craft have made him a respected figure in the Cruzeiro dressing room.

His philanthropic work focuses on providing sporting and educational facilities for children in his childhood neighborhood. He is involved in several charitable initiatives that support local youth development and healthcare programs in Minas Gerais. His commitment to his family and his professional growth remains the central pillar of his personal narrative. He remains entirely focused on achieving further success with both club and country as he prepares for the final stage of the 2026 season.