Matheus Cunha: the maverick United have been missing? | OneFootball

Manchester United’s latest signing, Matheus Cunha, arrives at Old Trafford with a mix of swagger, bite, and much-needed attacking directness - something the team has been sorely lacking.

Cunha is one of the Premier League’s most direct forwards, always looking to drive at defenders and break lines with his movement and ball-carrying. Whether he’s playing as a central striker or in a deeper, more creative role, the Brazilian’s instinct is to push forward at pace.

It’s a quality United have missed, relying too heavily on Bruno Fernandes to inject urgency and spark into their play with long-range passes and adventurous decisions from deep.

Beyond his attacking profile, the former Atletico Madrid forward also brings tactical familiarity. He’s already played in a 3-4-2-1 shape under both Julen Lopetegui and Gary O’Neil at Wolves - the same system new manager Rúben Amorim favours.

Statistically, Cunha had an excellent season at Wolves: 15 Premier League goals and six assists, contributing to 21 goals in the league alone. Five of those goals came from outside the box (the joint-most in the division alongside Bruno Fernandes) highlighting his ability to strike from distance and add a different dimension to United’s attack.

But Cunha’s not without baggage. Alongside his impressive output, he’s had some disciplinary issues. In December, he was banned for two games after clashing with an Ipswich staff member and in March, he picked up a four-match suspension for a headbutt on Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez. That edge is part of what makes him fearless, but it will need managing at a club where scrutiny is constant.

There’s hope, though, that Cunha’s arrival can do more than just lift the team’s quality - it could help reset the mood. United are coming off their worst top-flight season since 1973-74 and haven’t won a league title in over a decade. Morale is low. What they need now is energy, flair, and a bit of attitude.

In many ways, Cunha embodies all of that. There's something almost Cantona-esque in his blend of confidence, unpredictability, and explosive intent. He fits the club’s traditional attacking DNA: a little chaotic, full of flair, and always looking to make something happen.

He’s not a perfect fix, and there are still questions around consistency and temperament. But for a team badly in need of energy, belief, and directness, Cunha might just be the spark that gets things going again.