Bruno Fernandes and Ruben Amorim completely agree in their verdicts of new Manchester United forward Matheus Cunha both on and off the pitch.
Rúben Amorim’s Manchester United picked up their first pre-season victory with a 2-1 win over West Ham in New Jersey, thanks to a brace from captain Bruno Fernandes.
The game got off to a lively start in humid conditions on the East Coast, with Rasmus Højlund striking the outside of the post inside two minutes. United capitalised on their early momentum when Fernandes coolly converted a penalty to open the scoring.
Amad thought he had added a second just before the break after a dazzling run from Manuel Ugarte created the opportunity, but the goal was ruled out for offside. Fernandes’ penalty remained the difference at half-time.
United resumed control after the interval and Fernandes struck again, this time lifting the ball over Alphonse Areola after Kobbie Mainoo won possession high up the pitch. West Ham responded in the 64th minute as Jarrod Bowen pulled one back with a tidy finish, but Amorim’s sweeping changes to the outfield lineup helped United see out the win in composed fashion.
Amorim and Fernandes on Cunha’s importance
One of the match’s standout players was the new arrival, Matheus Cunha, who showed fans a lot of positive moves that will excite them for the upcoming season. Following the match, both his manager and his skipper spoke about his role in the team.
Cunha impressed at both ends of the pitch, not only with his dribbling and passing but also with his tackling as he won possession for United numerous times while defending and whilst pressing. After the match, Fernandes spoke about how the team need Cunha: “We need him at his best and to create this connection with every player to get the best out of him and the team”.
Throughout the match, Cunha was utilised all over the pitch and was often seen rotating with Fernandes. Post-match, Amorim discussed how Cunha’s experiences and skills make him well-suited for this system: “he played more or less in the same system in the last club. He’s a top player, can play in different positions”.
While Cunha may be disappointed to have not registered a goal or an assist, there is little else anyone can say to criticise his performance. Cunha’s versatility and tenacity have made him seamlessly integrate with the team on the pitch, and the post-match interviews have indicated that he’s bonding with his team off the pitch as well.
Cunha’s character is clear
Not only were Fernandes and Amorim complimentary about Cunha’s on-field skills, but also about his personality off the pitch.
Fernandes highlighted the instant positive impact that Cunha has made in the United dressing room, “We know most of the Brazilians are very loud and happy! He’s a very funny guy. He’s settled quickly with everyone”. This translated well on the pitch, where his passing looked like he was already in sync with his teammates.
Amorim also highlighted Cunha’s character, stating, “He’s really loud in the dressing room. He’s Brazilian. So I love that on him”. At Wolves, Cunha was known for his personality and presence on the pitch and based on Amorim’s depiction of him behind the scenes, this seems to be translating well to his United career.
Attitude problems have been a prevalent issue over the last few seasons at United, but with the arrival of positive characters like Cunha and the departure of some unsettled players, this looks like an issue that Amorim is hoping to resolve this summer.
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