Manchester United are facing a tactical crisis as high-priced signing Matheus Cunha struggles to find consistency, yet the club remains reluctant to solve their scoring woes by recalling Marcus Rashford from Barcelona.
Manchester United face a mounting dilemma regarding £62.5 million signing Matheus Cunha, whose inconsistent form has sparked comparisons to past “flop” signings.
Despite CEO Omar Berrada likening him to Eric Cantona, Cunha has struggled, scoring only one goal by December.
Though he idolizes Wayne Rooney’s energy, stating, “[Wayne] Rooney was the No.10 and he gave everything… That kind of energy – I try to bring that to my game,” the Brazilian has failed to sustain his previous Wolverhampton form.
Interim manager Darren Fletcher’s tactical shift to a 4-2-3-1 further complicates Cunha’s role, as he has struggled when moved to the wing.
Statistics reveal Cunha may have overperformed last season, scoring double his expected goals (xG).
Former manager Ruben Amorim previously defended the forward, noting: “I think he has more levels to go. He’s in a different club, different pressure, but I think he copes with that really well.”
Despite calls to bring back Marcus Rashford from his successful loan at Barcelona, United leadership reportedly remains hesitant to risk squad harmony.
While Owen Hargreaves argues, “I think Marcus is a super talent and the club could use him,” the club aims to move past “player-power culture.”
United now hope Cunha can refine his positioning and efficiency to justify his price tag and secure a top-five Premier League finish.