Matheus Cunha tactical role at Manchester United is evolving under Ruben Amorim. This analysis explains his freedom, impact, and why balance with Bruno Fernandes matters.
Matheus Cunha Tactical Role at Manchester United: A Closer Look
Matheus Cunha tactical role at Manchester United has become one of the most discussed talking points among fans in recent weeks. From frustration to flashes of brilliance, Cunha’s performances have sparked debate about freedom, structure, and balance in Ruben Amorim’s evolving system.
What we’ve seen recently isn’t accidental. Once Cunha was allowed more freedom in the last two games, the impact came immediately, a goal, an assist, and a visible lift in confidence. That alone tells you something is working. But football is never about just one player, and that’s where the real conversation begins.
Quick Summary
Matheus Cunha has delivered instant impact when given tactical freedom under Ruben Amorim. His performances against Wolves and Bournemouth highlight his strengths but also expose a growing balance issue alongside Bruno Fernandes.
This analysis breaks down why Cunha thrives with freedom, why the system currently lacks balance, and what Manchester United must adjust going forward.
Why Cunha’s Role Matters
Manchester United are at a tactical crossroads. Ruben Amorim is clearly trying to introduce a more fluid attacking structure one built on movement, positional rotation, and creativity between the lines.
In theory, Cunha is perfect for this idea.
He’s mobile, technically gifted, comfortable drifting wide or dropping deep, and brave enough to receive the ball under pressure. That makes the Matheus Cunha tactical role at Manchester United extremely important not just for results now, but for how Amorim’s philosophy takes shape long-term.
However, freedom without structure is chaos. And right now, United are walking a very fine line.
Details: Cunha’s Profile and Recent Impact
Player Profile
- Name: Matheus Cunha
- Age: 25
- Position: Forward / Attacking Midfielder
- Strengths: Dribbling, ball-carrying, off-ball movement, chance creation
- Weaknesses: Ball retention, defensive work rate, positional discipline
Recent Matches
Against Wolves and Bournemouth, Cunha was given license to roam. He drifted into half-spaces, linked play, attacked defenders directly, and crucially played without hesitation.
The numbers back it up:
- 1 goal
- 1 assist
- Increased touches in advanced central areas
- More progressive carries than in previous matches
This is the Cunha United signed expressive, fearless, and impactful.
Analysis: The Freedom vs Balance Debate
Here’s where my honest view comes in.
I like what Amorim is trying to do with Cunha. I won’t lie. He’s clearly trying to get the best out of him, and that’s a positive sign for any attacking player.
But football is not only about one individual.
The biggest issue with the current setup is balance especially when Cunha and Bruno Fernandes start together.
The Bruno–Cunha Problem
Both players:
- Like to roam
- Take risks on the ball
- Lose possession frequently
- Offer limited defensive cover
That combination is a ticking time bomb.
You cannot have two free spirits operating in the same zones without someone paying the price and right now, that price is midfield control and defensive stability.
For me, the hard truth is this:
Bruno Fernandes and Matheus Cunha should not start together every single game.
It’s not about talent. It’s about structure.
One should start.
The other should come on later.
Give freedom to one creator not two unless both suddenly decide to chase every ball they lose. And we all know that’s unlikely.
Tactical Adjustment: Where Others Fit In
If Cunha is roaming and Bryan Mbeumo is pushed inside as a false 9, then Mason Mount’s role becomes crucial.
Mount must operate higher up the pitch, closer to goal not as a striker, but as a connector and presser. Let him attack second balls, support the press, and arrive late in the box.
Mbeumo, meanwhile, should stay in his natural channel. That’s where he’s most effective. Forcing him central for long spells limits his strengths.
This is why the Matheus Cunha tactical role at Manchester United cannot be discussed in isolation. Every adjustment affects someone else.
What Fans Should Expect
Fans need to understand this isn’t about dropping players, it’s about managing roles.
Cunha will have games where he starts and dominates.
Bruno will have games where he controls everything.
But trying to squeeze everyone into the same XI without compromise leads to exactly what we’ve seen: moments of brilliance mixed with long spells of instability.
Historically, United players have stepped up in moments like this. We’ve seen it with Rashford during key absences and Greenwood in his early breakout games. Cunha now has the chance to define his own story but only if the system supports him.
What Next for United?
The next few games will be telling.
- Will Amorim rotate Cunha and Bruno more intelligently?
- Will Mount be used higher up consistently?
- Will United commit to balance over individual freedom?
These decisions will shape not just results, but the identity of this team moving forward.
If United get this right, Cunha can be a difference-maker.
If they don’t, the same issues will keep resurfacing.
More updates coming as the story develops.
