Manchester United's newcomer Matheus Cunha delivers promising performance, signifying potential for brighter future
New Signing Matheus Cunha Shines in Manchester United Debut
Matheus Cunha made a promising debut for Manchester United in the 2025-26 season, showcasing his attacking prowess in a 1-0 loss against Arsenal. The Brazilian striker, who joined the Red Devils for £62.5 million in June 2025, wore the number 10 shirt and impressed with his skill and tenacity [1][2].
Before his move to Old Trafford, Cunha had built a strong reputation at Wolverhampton Wanderers (Wolves), where he was their top scorer in the 2024-25 Premier League season with 15 goals. His goal-scoring and chance-creating abilities were on display during the match against Arsenal, as he created opportunities and fired in shots, although he did not find the back of the net [1][2].
Fan reactions to Cunha's debut were generally positive, with many praising his skill and work rate as a major attacking threat for the team. Video highlights and fan clips emphasized his impressive touch and key moments, suggesting excitement around his potential impact [4]. There was also a late penalty appeal involving Cunha, which some believed should have been awarded, indicating his active involvement in challenging Arsenal's defense [5].
Cunha's teammates at United, including new signing Benjamin Sesko, have taken notice of his talent. The duo combined effectively during the match against Arsenal, hinting at a promising partnership up front [1]. United's expectations for Cunha are high, as they see him as a central figure to improve their attacking threat and are hopeful he will continue to settle quickly and deliver goals and assists as the season progresses [1].
Cunha himself expressed optimism after the game, noting that it was "just the beginning" and emphasizing the need for continued improvement. He believes that the team deserves more than they have been getting, referencing his performance in his first match two years ago against Manchester United and in his first match this season for United [1].
Manchester United's next two league games are against Fulham and Burnley. The Red Devils will be hoping to bounce back from their opening-day defeat and build on the promising display from their new signing.
| Aspect | Details | |----------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Previous career | Rejuvenated after Atletico Madrid; top scorer at Wolves (15 league goals in 2024-25); £62.5m transfer | | Debut performance | Bright attacking display in 1-0 defeat vs Arsenal; significant threat with skill and tenacity | | Fan reactions | Positive, impressed by his skill and effort; excitement shown on social media about his key contributions | | Team expectations | High hopes for goals and assists; seen as a key attacking player wearing number 10; expected to improve |
This information is sourced mainly from recent reports following his debut and his career trajectory up to and including the opening game of the 2025-26 Premier League season [1][2][3][4][5].
[1] Manchester Evening News
[2] The Guardian
[3] BBC Sport
[4] Twitter
[5] Sky Sports