Cunha's Paradox

Cunha has impressed since joining MU.

Matheus Cunha didn't take long to prove his worth at Manchester United. In his first season with the "Red Devils," the Brazilian forward quickly became one of the most impactful players in the attack.

Harmony right from the first season

Those who followed Cunha from his time at RB Leipzig or Hertha Berlin know his ability to make an impact. But it wasn't until he joined Wolves and shouldered the team's attacking burden that Cunha truly gained widespread attention. That impressive performance led to his move to Old Trafford last summer.

At this point, the signing of Cunha can be considered a sensible move. Cunha plays primarily on the left wing and brings significant energy to Manchester United's attacking system. On average, he completes 3.2 successful dribbles or is fouled 3.2 times per Premier League match. These numbers clearly reflect his ability to break through defenses and put pressure on opposing defenders.

Cunha didn't take long to make his mark for MU.

However, looking at the goal and assist statistics, Cunha hasn't really exploded yet. After 26 Premier League matches, he only has 6 goals and 2 assists.

Those numbers don't fully reflect this player's contribution, because Cunha's influence on the game often comes from his ability to dribble, break down defensive structures, and create space for his teammates.

The problem is that Cunha's current position might only be a temporary solution. The Brazilian's nature isn't that of a pure winger. He's better suited to a number 10 or withdrawn forward role, where he can directly participate in organizing attacks.

When playing in the center of the pitch, Cunha has more opportunities to touch the ball, more space to create, and can also be involved in more goal-scoring situations. But that's also where Bruno Fernandes currently plays.

The Paradox of Best Things

The Manchester United captain's form this season has rendered almost all debate meaningless. Fernandes remains central to the team's style of play. He is the orchestrator, the leader, and a contender for the Premier League Player of the Year award.

In that situation, Manchester United have no reason to change their structure. Fernandes is likely to retain the number 10 role for the next few years if he stays. This means that the path for Cunha to take this position is very narrow.

Bruno and Cunha both played well, but there can only be one number 10.

Meanwhile, the team is also looking for more genuine left-wing players. Targets like Yan Diomande of RB Leipzig show the management wants to increase the width of their attacking system.

Even Patrick Dorgu, when used on the left wing under Michael Carrick, brought certain benefits to the team. If a true winger is brought in, Cunha may no longer be the default choice in this position.

A paradox thus arises. Cunha is good enough to be a starter at Manchester United, but the position best suited to him is already occupied. In this context, the most logical role for the Brazilian player might be that of a versatile attacking option. He can play on the left wing, provide support in midfield, or operate behind the striker when needed.

For teams aiming for titles, squad depth is a must. Manchester United's most successful seasons have all been associated with a team boasting a wealth of quality options.

Cunha may not have dreamed of a reserve role when he left Wolves, as he was previously the absolute center of attention for the team. But at Old Trafford, sometimes quiet contributions are the shortest path to titles.

Highlights Newcastle 2-1 MU: In the early hours of March 5th, Newcastle, despite playing with ten men, showed their mettle to defeat Manchester United in the 29th round of the Premier League.