Ruben Amorim has heaped praise on Manchester United forward Matheus Cunha as a "maverick" who "has an aura about him," praising the Brazilian's fearless style and mental edge since joining from Wolves. The United boss believes Cunha's unpredictable brilliance and psychological impact on opponents have transformed his side's attacking play during a promising start to the season.
Man Utd's new attacking signings helping Amorim
Cunha has quickly established himself as one of Manchester United’s standout performers following his £62.5 million ($82m) summer move from Wolverhampton Wanderers. The 26-year-old Brazilian has become a fan favourite at Old Trafford, with his blend of flair, aggression, and creativity earning him comparisons to former club icon Eric Cantona. While his goalscoring numbers remain modest, with one goal in 10 games so far, his influence on matches has been undeniable, sparking the Red Devils’ offensive setup.
Amorim has built his front line around Cunha and fellow new arrival Bryan Mbeumo. The pair have injected final-third dynamism into United’s attack, helping the team recover from an inconsistent start to the season. Amorim’s tactical setup has given Cunha the freedom to roam between the lines, link play with midfielders, and exploit gaps between the defensive line
Cunha’s performances have also coincided with a noticeable improvement in United’s pressing and transition play in the last month. His relentless energy and willingness to press from the front have added a new dimension to Amorim’s system.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportAmorim hails 'maverick' Cunha and Mbeumo
Speaking to the media network, Amorim was full of praise for his summer signing’s influence. "Cunha is a maverick who does things that are hard to find in some players," the United boss said. "He plays with the ball, but he has an aura that can do something to the opponent's heads. And that is really important."
Amorim went on to explain that Cunha’s unpredictable qualities bring something unique to his side’s attack. "It’s not just about scoring goals – it’s about the energy and the confidence he gives the team. Players like him make everyone around them believe they can do something special."
The Portuguese coach also highlighted the mentality of his other major summer signing, Mbeumo, crediting the pair for their elite work ethic and tactical awareness. "Bryan is really direct, and we missed that last year," Amorim continued. "You can sense when the ball is going to our defender; he is already running to position. This kind of small thing that people don't see is massive to turn our team into a more dangerous team."
Cunha and Mbeumo arrived as part of offensive overhaul
Cunha and Mbeumo's arrival at Old Trafford was part of a wider summer overhaul under Amorim aimed at reigniting United’s attacking identity. The Brazilian forward was viewed as the invigorating spark and psychological presence the club had been missing. Meanwhile, the Cameroonian's signing was aimed at solving the Red Devils' lack of creativity and chance creation.
While Cunha's goal tally might not yet reflect his influence, the underlying numbers tell a different story. Cunha ranks among United’s top players for dribbles completed, shots taken, and chances created this season, underlining his role as both creator and catalyst. His physicality and technique have allowed him to thrive in Amorim’s pressing system.
Off the ball, his presence has been equally impactful. Cunha’s work rate and willingness to engage defenders create space for teammates like Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko to exploit. In many ways, he embodies the mentality Amorim has sought to instil since his arrival.
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The challenge now for United lies in sustaining the momentum their new attacking core has generated. With Cunha and Mbeumo leading the line, Amorim’s side has rediscovered its rhythm after a stuttering start to the campaign, climbing steadily up the Premier League table.
However, questions remain about the team’s consistency in front of goal. While Mbeumo’s tally of five goals and an assist has provided much-needed end product, Cunha’s finishing still needs refinement if he is to reach the next level.
As United prepare for a demanding winter schedule, the importance of maintaining squad fitness and tactical sharpness will be crucial. Mbeumo’s expected absence during the Africa Cup of Nations could further elevate Cunha’s responsibility as United’s attacking talisman.