Matheus Cunha Proving His Worth To Manchester United

Manchester United might not have held on for all three points against Bournemouth, but Matheus Cunha was instrumental in ensuring Michael Carrick’s side left the south coast with at least something to show for their efforts. The Brazilian might well have been the most impressive player on the pitch. BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND - MARCH 20: Matheus Cunha of Manchester United during the Premier League match between Bournemouth and Manchester United at Vitality Stadium on March 20, 2026 in Bournemouth, England.

(Photo by Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images) Getty Images Cunha won the penalty from which United opened the scoring against Bournemouth and was a threat throughout in a 2-2 draw. He registered more touches in the opposition box than any other player and gave Alex Jimenez a difficult evening with his dribbling ability and natural capacity for creativity. There was a time not so long ago when some were questioning Manchester United’s wisdom in paying roughly $80m for Cunha.

The Brazilian struggled to get going in his new surroundings after making the summer switch from Wolves, failing to score his first goal for United until late-October. Eventually, though, the goals started flowing. Cunha has now registered nine goal contributions in the Premier League this season and is a key figure for a team on course for a top-five finish and Champions League qualification.

This has been evident in the Brazilian’s recent performances. Signed to operate as one of United’s two number 10s under Ruben Amorim, it’s not certain where Cunha will play beyond this season. Now that Amorim is gone, Manchester United has shifted into a more orthodox 4-2-3-1 formation that requires a natural left-sided attacker on the wing.