Matheus Cunha was Manchester United’s first completed signing this summer, joining from Wolves for £62.5m after triggering his release clause.
Cunha brings a wealth of qualities to the United squad, most notably his ability to carry the ball through the thirds, break defensive lines, and create fluidity in attack.
His physical strength allows him to win duels and 1v1 battles, making him a tough player to dispossess or beat to loose balls.
Most importantly, Cunha can contribute directly to the team’s output, both by creating chances and providing assists, as well as finishing chances himself when opportunities arise.
The Brazilian turned down offers from other Premier League clubs to join United, with hopes of helping the squad return to the top of the table.
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The Manchester Evening News has reported what Cunha’s former coach Ian Burchnall said were the reasons why Cunha chose to make the move, rather than joining other interested teams.
Burchnall revealed that Cunha was drawn to United largely because of the system Ruben Amorim prefers to play.
Amorim’s favoured formation is a 3-4-2-1 with two number 10s, and Cunha is considered tailor-made for the left number 10 role.
Burchnall explained that when Matheus Cunha previously played in a 4-2-3-1 just behind the striker, the defensive demands were far higher.
In the left 10 role, however, he covers less space as responsibilities are shared with the other number 10, reducing his defensive workload.
Even so, Amorim will still expect Cunha to contribute defensively and adapt to different structures depending on the opposition and the game-to-game tactical needs.
Cunha has already demonstrated his commitment during pre-season, regaining the ball high up the pitch multiple times and helping United transition quickly into dangerous attacking opportunities, showing he is ready to make an immediate impact this season.
