After spending time together with the Brazil national team during the recent international break, Vinicius Jr. and Matheus Cunha took advantage of their stay in Brazil to enjoy a special dinner with two football legends: Ronaldo Nazário and Ronaldinho. A photo of the gathering, shared by Ronaldinho on Instagram, quickly went viral, capturing all four smiling in what looked like a generational passing of the torch in Brazilian football.

First signing of the Amorim era

The timing of the dinner is particularly symbolic, as Cunha was recently unveiled as the newest addition to Manchester United. The forward signed a deal until June 2030, with an option for a further year, in a transfer reportedly worth around $73 million (£62.5 million) from Wolverhampton Wanderers. He becomes the first official signing under new head coach Rúben Amorim at Old Trafford.

Now 26, Matheus Cunha joins United after scoring 33 goals and providing 15 assists in 92 matches for the Wolves. At his unveiling, he shared his excitement: “As a child, I used to watch Manchester United on TV and always dreamed of wearing this shirt.” He also pledged to work hard to help the club return to the top of English football, following a season without European competition.

Brazil’s new No. 10

Vinicius Jr. also made headlines during the international break. He debuted with Brazil’s iconic number 10 shirt and scored the opening goal in a win over Paraguay, marking the first match with Carlo Ancelotti in charge as head coach. His presence at the dinner alongside Ronaldo and Ronaldinho carried extra meaning, as many now see him as their rightful successor.

The image of Vinicius and Cunha sharing a meal with Ronaldo Nazário and Ronaldinho perfectly captured the ongoing generational transition. One shines at Real Madrid and is preparing for the Club World Cup, while the other embarks on a new challenge in the Premier League, determined to prove himself at the highest level. Both represent the present of Brazilian football, while drawing strength and inspiration from its storied past.