Manchester United‘s captain Bruno Fernandes is the key playmaker in the 2025/26 season and a strong candidate for Premier League Player of the Season. However, Matheus Cunha has also showcased his talent during his first year with the team.
Cunha has a history of impressive performances, starting from his time at RB Leipzig. Although he struggled with Hertha Berlin, his standout displays at Wolves caught the attention of Manchester United, leading to his transfer this summer.
He has so far justified his transfer cost. As the main left winger, Cunha averages 3.2 combined successful dribbles and fouls drawn per game. Although he has recorded only six goals and two assists in 26 Premier League matches, his overall contributions on the pitch are more significant than these numbers suggest.
Matheus Cunha’s Future as a Starter
Manchester United is looking at more talent for the left wing, with Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig being a standout option this season.
Cunha is not seen as a long-term solution for the left wing position. His strengths lie more in the role of a No. 10 or an attacking midfielder—positions where he can make a greater impact and contribute more goals and assists.
While his best fit may be as a No. 10, transitioning to that role could take longer as Bruno Fernandes continues to perform well, making it clear that he remains a vital player for Manchester United.
Fernandes is expected to maintain his form, so it might be years before he steps aside. As Manchester United aims to bring in a left winger who can add more width, Cunha may find his best role as a versatile backup, filling in as needed.
Having depth is crucial for competing at a high level in England, and many Manchester United fans recognize the value of a player like Cunha in a backup position, particularly during the club’s successful seasons.
Cunha may not have envisioned this role when he joined Manchester United after being a key figure at Wolves, but he might appreciate it more if the team starts collecting trophies.