MATHEUS CUNHA revealed his wife is behind his beefed-up physique during a cheeky admission live on TV.

The Manchester United star was in high spirits after inspiring United’s remarkable 3-2 Champions League comeback win over Roma.

But it was his muscular frame that caught the attention of Micah Richards.

Cunha, 27, appeared on CBS Sports’ UEFA Champions League Today show alongside Richards, Thierry Henry, Jamie Carragher and presenter Kate Scott.

And former Manchester City defender Richards was quick to point out the Brazilian’s work in the gym.

He said: “You’ve been going to the gym.”

Cunha cheekily replied: “Yeah, thank you. Thank you. My wife need[s] [me] to [be] bigger.”

Wife Gabriela was certainly impressed by her husband’s performance last night.

She took to Instagram to share a picture to her 130,000 Instagram followers of a shirtless Cunha celebrating among United supporters at Old Trafford.

The post was accompanied by the words “ORGULHO INFINITO! SEMPRE” – which translates from Portuguese as “ENDLESS PRIDE! ALWAYS.”

Gabriela also shared footage of her husband applauding the Old Trafford faithful after the final whistle, captioning the video: “WHAT A NIGHT.”

And Gabriela had every reason to be proud after Cunha inspired United to their first victory in ten matches.

Michael Carrick’s struggling side looked destined for another miserable night when Roma raced into a 2-0 lead inside 17 minutes.

Cunha helped spark the stunning second-half comeback after winning a penalty, which Bruno Fernandes converted on the retake to ignite the fightback after missing his first attempt.

Cunha then struck twice in three minutes, levelling in the 83rd minute before firing home the winner to send Old Trafford into meltdown.

However, his unforgettable evening ended on a sour note after he was sent off in stoppage time.

The forward had already been booked for removing his shirt and celebrating among supporters before picking up a second yellow card for a late sliding challenge.

Carrick refused to let him celebrate after the match as a result of the red card.

Despite the late drama, United held on to secure a much-needed victory and give Carrick a huge boost after a dismal run of results.