Matheus Pereira, the standout midfielder for Cruzeiro, has been awarded the prestigious Craque do Futebol Mineiro at the Troféu Guará BMG, following an impressive season where he was recognized for his pivotal role on the team.
The 28-year-old Brazilian attracted attention from sports journalists across Minas Gerais, earning 15 votes as the top player, highlighting his significant contribution to Cruzeiro’s success during the 2024 season.
Pereira joined Cruzeiro on loan from Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal during the second half of 2023. Initially adjusting to the team dynamics, he gained traction early on, scoring one goal and providing one assist across 15 appearances. By 2024, he had solidified his place as one of the team's central figures.
His capabilities were on full display this season, during which he participated in 59 matches, netting 11 goals and providing 15 assists. His commendable performance was instrumental as Cruzeiro finished as runners-up in the Mineiro Championship and also made strides in the Copa Sul-Americana.
Not only did he lead the assist charts in the state championship, but he also ranked among the top three assist providers in Brazil's Série A, marking him as the leading scorer for Cruzeiro this season.
Reflecting on his success, Pereira’s contributions have not gone unnoticed, as he was also called up to represent the Brazilian national team, augmenting his impressive statistics of 12 goals and 16 assists throughout his 74 matches with the club.
The award ceremony itself, organized by Itatiaia, holds historical significance, with the Troféu Guará recognizing excellence since 1962. This marked the 61st edition of the awards, reaffirming its valued status within the Brazilian football community.
With his position solidified at Cruzeiro and his recent accolades, Matheus Pereira continues to be a player to watch, as he signed on for the long term with Cruzeiro until June 2026. His future seems bright, with expectations high for continued success both at the club and national levels.
