Cunha's message to Man Utd boss Carrick as he thrives in new tactical role for Brazil

Cunha showed Michael Carrick a new position he can thrive in at Manchester United after hitting a double for Brazil at the World Cup.

After finishing the season in fine form, Cunha took that into the World Cup where he justified Carlo Ancelotti's decision to start him.

In a side rich with forward talent, Cunha is in the process of proving his value and did just that against Haiti.

Cunha forced in a deserved opener in the 23rd minute, turning home a rebound from Vinicius Junior's saved effort although the forward was fortunate the goal stood after accidentally kicking defender Hannes Delcroix as he deflected the ball over the line.

But there could be no doubts over Cunha's second strike that he superbly smashed in high at the near post with his left foot as he fell away off balance before Vinicius Jr rolled in a third during stoppage time to cap Brazil's impressive first-half performance.

But more than just for the goals he scored, Cunha's performance for Brazil was very positive due to the tactical role he played for the team.

Under Carrick, Cunha has generally played off the wing with Benjamin Sesko or Bryan Mbeumo in the centre but Ancelotti put him in the middle.

Even though he was positioned as a center forward, the striker functioned as a "false 9".

This increased Brazil's midfield power and, as a bonus, created spaces that were exploited by Raphinha and Vini Jr.

"I play much more like this than as a fixed center forward. I'm the kind of player who floats around, fills lines, and creates opportunities by filling different spaces on the field," said Cunha.

"I always try to be versatile to be the best for the team, but of course, I also always try to score goals, which is important."

The striker admitted that the draw against Morocco in the opening match shook the morale of the Brazilian squad and made the result achieved against Haiti even more valuable.

He said: "We had to win and convince not only externally, but internally as well.

"We are human beings and we had doubts (about the team's performance), it's normal. I think a victory like today gives us greater peace of mind to perform better in the next rounds."

United fans are used to seeing Cunha's goal celebration and he told O Globo the reason behind it.

He said: "I'm from João Pessoa, and I started surfing in Bahia Formosa to unwind in other ways.

"Surfing became a part of my life. One of my best friends is a surfer, I'm very good friends with Ítalo... I think I watch more surfing than football."