Manchester United Signs Matheus Cunha
In a significant move, Manchester United has secured the signing of Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers for a fee of £62.5 million ($83.7 million), which corresponds to the release clause in his contract. Cunha, who is 26 years old, has committed to a five-year deal at Old Trafford, with an additional year option pending.
Player’s Excitement and Ambitions
Expressing his excitement about joining one of the most storied clubs in English football, Cunha remarked, “Words fail to describe my emotions as I join Manchester United. From my childhood in Brazil, watching Premier League matches with my grandmother, United has always been my favorite club, and wearing the red shirt is a dream come true. I am grateful to my family and everyone who guided me to this achievement. I eagerly look forward to pre-season, where I’ll get to know my new teammates and work hard in the hopes of contributing to the team’s success.”
Director of Football’s Statement
Jason Wilcox, the newly appointed director of football for Manchester United, stated that signing Cunha was a top priority this summer, noting the swift completion of the deal. He commented on Cunha’s exceptional talent as a forward, highlighting his impressive record during his tenure at Wolves and previous clubs in Spain and Germany. Wilcox believes Cunha embodies the qualities needed to help build a vibrant and competitive team capable of vying for major trophies.
Manchester United’s Strategic Goals
Manchester United is looking to enhance their attacking options after Bruno Fernandes and Amad both finished as the club’s leading goal-scorers in the Premier League last season, with only eight goals each. Cunha’s recent performance at Wolves saw him score 17 goals in 36 appearances across all competitions during the 2024-25 season, marking his most productive campaign to date, even while facing a six-match suspension.
Cunha’s Impact and Versatility
Cunha’s role with Wolves demonstrated his importance to the team, as he managed to net 15 goals despite not always playing as a traditional striker, showcasing his ability to shoulder significant attacking responsibilities. As a left-sided No 10, his knack for finding space reflected his sharp footballing intelligence. He not only contributed significantly to goal-scoring but also led the team in creating open-play opportunities and expected assists.
United had a taste of Cunha’s talent firsthand when he scored an Olimpico goal against them in a match over the festive season. His capabilities could offer United the missing link between midfield and attack, particularly as he thrives in a 3-4-2-1 tactical setup, allowing for both creativity and goal-scoring.
Conclusion: A Valuable Asset for United
With his versatility across the front line and experience in different attacking roles, Cunha seems to fit the profile of the adaptable player United seeks. His recent performances against United, alongside his dynamic style of play, further elevate him as a valuable asset for Erik ten Hag’s squad.
While some concerns about his temperament have emerged, particularly regarding foul play that resulted in bans, his scoring ability is evident from his recent records of 12 and 15 Premier League goals in consecutive seasons. This track record underlines his potential as a formidable forward in Manchester United’s quest to reclaim their status at the top of English football.
