Five ways Matheus Cunha will transform Man United after completing £62.5m to Old Trafford.
Manchester United’s disappointing Europa League final loss to Tottenham and their 16th-place Premier League finish, leaving them without European football next season, has raised concerns about their summer recruitment plans. The acquisition of Matheus Cunha from Wolves, however, offers a glimmer of hope.
United triggered Cunha’s £62.5 million release clause, securing a player who shone last season with 15 goals and six assists, contributing significantly to Wolves’ attack. But how will the 26-year-old fit into Ruben Amorim’s plans?
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1. Versatile Attacker Who Fills a Tactical Gap
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Photo || The Athletic
With Alejandro Garnacho’s potential departure, United are short of attacking options behind the striker in their preferred 3-4-2-1 formation. While Mason Mount and Amad Diallo show promise, both have struggled with injuries. Bruno Fernandes, should he stay, needs more consistent support in shouldering the creative burden.
Cunha’s consistent output, versatility, and availability make him an ideal candidate. Comfortable operating as a left-sided number 10, he can also play on the right or as a central striker. His consistent availability is a plus, having played around 70% of available Premier League minutes since joining Wolves two and a half years ago, with only minor injuries and disciplinary issues sidelining him.
2. Brings Directness and Aggression United Desperately Lack
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Photo || The Athletic
Cunha’s direct attacking style is a key asset that United currently lacks. They rely heavily on Fernandes’s forward-thinking passing, while most teammates are more hesitant to advance the ball. Cunha, in contrast, is a confident dribbler and passer, always looking to move the ball towards the opposition goal.
A prime example of Cunha’s confidence was his performance against Leicester City in April, where he scored a goal and provided two assists. His willingness to run at defenders and create opportunities from nothing is something United desperately needs, especially against teams employing high-pressure tactics.
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3. A Creative Partner for Bruno Fernandes
Cunha’s positional freedom at Wolves allowed him to drift across the attacking third, influencing the game from various areas. However, at United, he may need to adapt and share the creative spotlight with Fernandes.
Both players have a high “usage rate,” meaning they frequently complete the final action in a sequence for their team. This shared responsibility could be beneficial, but requires positional discipline and selflessness.
4. Striker’s Instinct and Flair
Cunha’s experience playing in a similar 3-4-2-1 system is another advantage. He brings two-footed unpredictability, varied running, and a striker’s instinct around the box. He’s adept at finding space behind the defense and finishing clinically, as demonstrated by his match-winning performance against Fulham.
While not prolific with his weaker left foot, Cunha possesses a goal threat from distance, as evidenced by his stunning strike against Liverpool. Although his goal tally might decrease at United, his positive approach and willingness to drive the team forward will be invaluable.
Disciplinary issues, including a red card against Bournemouth and a suspension following an altercation with staff, are a concern. Managing these off-field issues will be crucial for United.
On the pitch, however, Cunha’s signing makes sense. His flair, confidence, and willingness to take responsibility are qualities United’s attack needs. He offers a much-needed injection of self-assurance and attacking impetus alongside Fernandes, potentially revitalizing a struggling front line.
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5. Durable and Dependable
Injuries and inconsistent availability have plagued United’s attacking midfielders. Cunha, in contrast, has featured in roughly 70% of available Premier League minutes since joining Wolves two and a half years ago. With only minor injury setbacks and the occasional disciplinary issue, he brings a level of reliability that could prove essential over a grueling campaign.
