In a statement on Sao Paulo's official website, Cunha said: "The negotiations with Manchester are not as easy as they seem.
"Besides the fact that they must meet the buy-out clause, the English club is demanding that the player have a minimum number of national team appearances and, more importantly, a European passport and with my experience in football, that document will not be ready until August 31.
"Therefore, after completing a two-game suspension, Cicinho will return to defend the Sao Paulo colours."