MU finds the 'new Bruno Fernandes'

Throughout his career, Cunha often started slowly before exploding into a powerful force once he found the confidence and the right role within the tactical system.

Manchester United is changing rapidly under Michael Carrick, and what excites Old Trafford fans most right now isn't just the victories. More importantly, they're starting to see players capable of creating a new identity for the team.

In the 3-2 victory against Nottingham Forest in the 37th round of the Premier League on May 17th, the standout player was undoubtedly Bruno Fernandes. The Manchester United captain continued to play at a very high level, making eight assists and equaling the assist record. If his teammates had been more clinical in their finishing, Fernandes could have easily left the field with four or five assists.

However, what's noteworthy is that for the first time in years, Bruno Fernandes is no longer the only player who seems to carry the team on his shoulders. Matheus Cunha is gradually bringing that image to life.

The Brazilian forward continued his excellent form against Forest, scoring a goal, creating four chances for his teammates, and constantly disrupting the visitors' defense with great confidence. One of Cunha's passes nearly became an assist if Bryan Mbeumo hadn't hit the post.

But what makes Cunha special isn't just the numbers. For many years, Manchester United has lacked players capable of energizing the entire team. Bruno Fernandes is almost the only one who consistently maintains a high level of intensity, fighting spirit, and a desire to make a difference in every game. That's why whenever Bruno is out of form or absent, Manchester United immediately becomes lackluster.

Cunha always plays with the confidence of a player who believes he can change the course of a game at any moment.

Now, Cunha is starting to give off a similar vibe. He plays with flair but not carelessly. The Brazilian forward successfully dribbled past Forest on all three occasions, won four duels, and constantly moved to create space for his teammates. More importantly, Cunha always plays with the confidence of a player who believes he can change the game at any moment.

That's a quality very few Manchester United players have possessed in recent years. It's worth noting that Cunha didn't have an easy start at Old Trafford. Before December, he had only scored one goal for United and his ability to adapt to the Premier League was questioned. Many believed the Brazilian striker would become another failed signing for the club.

But Cunha patiently overcame that difficult period. In fact, this wasn't the first time he needed time to adapt to a new environment. Throughout his career, Cunha often started slowly before exploding into a powerful force once he found confidence and a suitable role within the tactical system.

Carrick seems to understand this very well. The English coach doesn't force Cunha to be a pure center forward, but gives him the freedom to move, connect with others, and participate in every key moment of the attack. This is what allows the Brazilian striker to maximize his all-around skill set.

What excites MU fans the most is the prospect for next season. The trio of Cunha, Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko have all scored 10 or more goals in their first season with the club, a rare achievement in Premier League history.

If he continues to develop at his current rate, Cunha could easily reach over 30 goal contributions across all competitions next season. But more important than goals or assists, MU has finally found another player who can drive the team forward with his personality and energy.

That's something Old Trafford has been waiting for a very long time, ever since the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era.