Matheus Cunha did not deliver his best display for Manchester United against Wolves but one moment showed exactly what he’s been missing so far this term.
Manchester United eased to a 4-1 win over Wolves in their Premier League encounter, with Bruno Fernandes, Bryan Mbeumo and Mason Mount all finding the net.
United were on the front foot from the opening whistle, controlling the tempo and forcing Wolves, still without a league win, onto the back foot.
The first goal wasn’t the prettiest, but Fernandes reacted smartly to give his side the lead. However, despite their dominance, United gifted Wolves an equaliser just before the interval with sloppy defending.
The second half was far more routine for the visitors, and additional goals from Fernandes, Mbeumo and Mount ensured a comfortable and well-earned three points.
Cunha’s struggles so far
Matheus Cunha attempted eight shots against his former side on Monday night but failed to get on the scoresheet, and he still has just one goal for the Reds so far.
He did grab an assist in the game, although that was mostly down to Fernandes’ brilliance after a poor pass from the Brazilian.
Cunha has had a mostly positive impact since arriving in the summer but he will be wanting to increase his contribution in front of goal.
One of the things he has been missing at Old Trafford is building a connection with the left wingback. That is partly due to the underwhelming options in that position and also because he has played several games through the middle.
He worked brilliantly with Rayan Aït-Nouri at the Molinuex Stadium and we saw a glimpse of how he can shine with that kind of partnership in the win over Wolves.
Cunha moment vs Wolves showed what he’s been missing
In the build up to United’s second of the game at Wolves, Cunha received the ball centrally as United were transitioning and Diogo Dalot provided a great run in behind.
The Brazilian’s weight of pass in behind for the wingback was perfect and he could simply square the ball to Mbeumo for an easy goal.
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Those are the kind of runs that help Cunha’s game. Not only can he find those players with a pass, but it will also open up space for him to run with the ball himself.
Some of his runs on the ball are not working at the moment, partly because he does not have those other options, and that is something that needs to improve.
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