Schmeichel explains how Matheus Cunha inspired Man United win | OneFootball

Manchester United’s decision to move for Matheus Cunha at the beginning of last summer is fast proving to be a masterstroke. The Red Devils were looking to add more creativity and goals to the team after a disappointing campaign and had identified the Brazilian as a solution.

Cunha was very impressive for Wolverhampton Wanderers last season and INEOS decided he would be an upgrade on the options available at Old Trafford. United subsequently offloaded several of their attackers, including Rasmus Hojlund, Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho, in a bid to revamp the frontline.

The Premier League giants also signed Benjamin Sesko and Bryan Mbeumo to fill those roles, while Senne Lammens arrived at Old Trafford on deadline day to strengthen the goalkeeping department. It is safe to say that all four have left a lasting impression this season.

While Cunha has not been able to replicate his numbers from last campaign, he has quickly become one of the Red Devils’ most important men.

Cunha’s season so far

Cunha was immediately drafted into the starting XI at the beginning of the season. While he showed flashes of brilliance, the Brazilian had to wait a while for his first goal for United, which came in the 4-2 win over Brighton at Old Trafford in October.

Since then, the 26 year old has chipped in with quite a few important strikes, including the winner against Arsenal in caretaker manager Michael Carrick’s second game in charge. Cunha has operated as a left-forward as well as through the middle, with his versatility also proving to be an asset for United.

The Brazilian has registered eight goals and four assists in 32 appearances in all competitions this season, all but four of which have been starts.

Matheus Cunha Stats: 2025/26 Season

Source: Transfermarkt.

Against Chelsea on Saturday, Cunha missed an opportunity early in the first half, when he tried to control Mbeumo’s pass and ended up getting booked. However, the Brazilian soon made amends to secure all three points for the visitors.

The player’s performance earned him praise from former United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel and former England manager Glenn Hoddle.

Cunha learned from his mistake

Speaking to Premier League Productions during half-time, Schmeichel insisted that Cunha had quickly made up for his mistake early in the game. He said: “There’s only a couple of times Manchester United have done something positive in the game and both have involved Cunha.”

“The first is spoiled by a heavy touch and he gets booked, but he learned his lesson; he hits the goal first time.”

Fellow pundit Hoddle was full of praise for Cunha, adding: “United have found themselves 1-0 up, playing average and Chelsea have had the better chances.”

“It’s a great position to be in. Cunha’s finish is great; he misses one chance, but that’s the mark of a top-quality player to find that moment and finish when you’re not playing so well yourself.”

Final Thoughts

Cunha has already helped improve United since his arrival, and his knack for the spectacular has also endeared him to fans. With the Red Devils expected to further reinforce their midfield this summer, the Brazilian could even hit a higher gear next season.

Featured image Julian Finney via Getty Images

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