Matheus Cunha: What contributions can the forward make to Manchester United after his transfer to Old Trafford this summer?
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The forward was instrumental in Wolverhampton Wanderers’ resurgence last season, finishing the campaign with an impressive tally of 17 goals and six assists in 36 appearances across all competitions.
Manchester United find themselves in urgent need of a forward capable of taking charge of a match, having managed to score just 44 goals in the Premier League this season, the fifth-lowest in the division.
With Cunha now donning the Red Devils’ colours, it’s time to delve into what he will bring to United’s attack in the upcoming term.
When examining the statistics, it becomes evident that Cunha has been significantly more clinical than his fellow forwards at United in recent years. Since the start of the 2023/2024 season, which marked his first full campaign in England, the Brazilian has found the net 27 times in 65 appearances. Additionally, he has assisted a further 13 goals for his teammates.
In comparison, Hojlund has managed just 14 Premier League goals in the same timeframe, despite having made only three fewer appearances. The Dane has not been a creative force either, contributing just two assists.
Cunha’s versatility allows him to be deployed anywhere across a front three, while Hojlund tends to play a more traditional number nine role, highlighting a stark difference in their contributions.
United are also lacking goals from wide areas. Garnacho has netted 13 goals and provided six assists in 72 appearances since the start of the 2023/2024 campaign, which is significantly less than Cunha’s output.
While Rashford’s goalscoring record for United is superior to Garnacho’s, it still pales in comparison to Cunha’s. The England international has managed 11 goals and three assists over the last two seasons, although he did join Aston Villa on loan in February, which complicates the comparison.
From Antony to Amad Diallo, Cunha outshines every United forward in front of goal over the past two years.
Cunha’s pressing game is another aspect worth noting. Ruben Amorim’s style of play has been a topic of discussion, with some suggesting he lacks the right personnel at United to implement it effectively. His approach demands a high-intensity press, quick transitions, and a fluid front three willing to collect the ball from any area of the pitch. In this regard, Cunha appears to be a perfect fit.
He wins the ball in the opposition’s third 0.80 times per 90 minutes, ranking behind only Antony, Zirkzee, and Diallo. Furthermore, he averages 1.21 tackles per game, again only surpassed by Antony and Diallo.
So, while Cunha is clinical in front of goal, he is also unafraid to roll up his sleeves, working hard to regain possession and put his team on the front foot.
However, there is one crucial factor that has yet to be considered. Hojlund and Antony arrived in Manchester with considerable reputations, with the latter having proven his scoring ability at Real Betis. Rashford and Garnacho both possess immense potential and could still defy expectations in the years to come.
The weight of the famous red shirt has undoubtedly affected their performances, and it’s easy to understand why. The pressure to perform at such a prestigious club must be immense.
Cunha is eager to test himself on the grandest stage, but he will need nerves of steel to withstand the bright lights of Old Trafford.
All stats courtesy of Opta.