Manchester United fans have wasted no time voicing their excitement over new signing Matheus Cunha, despite the Brazilian forward only playing 45 minutes in his unofficial debut against Leeds United in Stockholm.
Cunha, who arrived from Wolves in a £62.5 million deal earlier this summer, was handed a place in the starting XI by new United boss Rúben Amorim as part of the team’s pre-season preparations.
Although the friendly was primarily intended to build fitness and experiment tactically, it became clear early on that Cunha was already making a major impression on supporters.
While the match itself was largely uneventful and ended the first half goalless, Cunha stood out as a bright spark in an otherwise sluggish United performance.
His ability to carry the ball forward with pace and purpose, link up effectively with teammates, and confidently take on defenders caught the attention of fans watching around the world.
Supporters quickly flooded social media with their reactions. Some praised Cunha for being the only player showing sharpness and intent, while others noted his superior ball progression compared to the rest of the squad, even suggesting that not even star midfielder Bruno Fernandes could match his ball-carrying ability in the game.
Several fans admitted that United looked threatening only when Cunha was involved in the play, reinforcing the view that his signing could add a new dimension to the team’s attack.
One supporter humorously commented that Cunha himself must be shocked at the quality of football he’s witnessing from his new teammates, hinting at the overall disjointed display from United.
At just 26 years old, Cunha arrives at Old Trafford with expectations to fill a crucial role. Signed for his ability to provide direct runs, creativity in transition, and support for lead striker Rasmus Højlund, his debut performance suggests he is already on track to deliver on those fronts.
His £62.5 million price tag raised some eyebrows when the transfer was announced, but his early showing has gone a long way toward justifying the fee.
This friendly was also an early glimpse into Amorim’s tactical vision for Manchester United.
Both Cunha and fellow new signing Diego Leon were introduced as part of the evolving setup, although the match also highlighted the need for further squad improvements.
Reports suggest United are close to finalizing a £71 million deal for Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, while the club is also pursuing a new goalkeeper, with Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez on the shortlist.
United’s pre-season schedule is packed with opportunities for fans to see more of Cunha and the evolving squad.
After the Leeds game, the Red Devils will head to the United States for fixtures against West Ham, Bournemouth, and Everton before returning to Old Trafford to face Fiorentina on August 9. Their Premier League opener against Arsenal is set for August 17.
