Matheus Cunha and Mason Mount suffered injuries during Manchester United’s 3-2 win over Burnley at Old Trafford
Saturday night at Old Trafford was different. Everyone knew how important the result was. The pressure was already on after losing points against Fulham, and United needed a win. There was anxiety right from the start; hope and fear were in the air. United took the lead, Burnley responded and equalised.
Altay Bayindir’s miss cost Manchester United, and Jaidon Anthony took advantage of it to change the scoreline. But in the end, the long wait for VAR after a foul on Amad, and then Bruno Fernandes’ calm finish, provided the relief of that moment that was beyond any answer.
Injury concerns and Amorim’s reaction
But with the joy of this victory came a huge worry. According to the Manchester United official website, Ruben Amorim said after the match that Matheus Cunha and Mason Mount’s injuries were bothering him. Cunha left in the first half and went straight into the tunnel. Mount played on for another 30 minutes, but in pain, and had to come off at half-time.
Matheus Cunha and Mason Mount suffered injuries during Manchester United's 3-2 win over Burnley at Old Trafford.
Amorim worried as Cunha and Mount limp off in United’s dramatic 3-2 win over Burnley
Amorim clearly indicated that both players are vital to his side and their absence could affect United’s ability to compete. Cunha was replaced by Joshua Zirkzee, while Mount was replaced by Kobbie Mainoo. United kept their momentum after these changes in the game, but it was clear that the team had suffered a deep blow. Amorim was emotional in his press conference and said that he needed both of these players, and now it remains to be seen how serious their situation is.
“It was hard to lose Cunha and Mason Mount, because Mason Mount played 30 minutes with an injury. I’m concerned about that, because they are so important for us. We will see.
“I don’t know [how they are], I don’t know. We will check them. We need those guys really bad to be really competitive.”
Impact of these injuries:
The question now is how United’s balance will be maintained if Cunha and Mount remain out for some time. Cunha plays a key role in Amorim’s system in link-up play and creating chances. His absence means the team will have to find alternative ways to move the ball forward.
Mount’s absence will reduce experience and goal threat, which will further increase the burden on the other players. In such a situation, Joshua Zirkzee and Kobbie Mainoo could get more time. Amad could also get a consistent place in the starting eleven, while Bruno Fernandes and Bryan Mbeumo will have more creative responsibility and pressure to score goals.
Amorim has already admitted that this situation will not be easy, but Bryan Mbeumo has supported Amorim in this challenging time. Amorim could also try a 3-4-2-1 shift from 3-4-3 with Zirkzee up front. Amad or another winger could be used up front with Mbeumo and Sesko. If Mount remains out, Mainoo’s place could be confirmed, and Bruno could be pushed further forward.
This change means the team will have to rely on a more direct style and quick transitions, as Cunha’s build-up ability will be absent. Counter-attacks may become even more important in the coming matches. Amorim himself was emotional after the win, as it was the first win of the season, and it may give confidence for the tough weeks ahead. But as United fans, we feel these injuries have soured the joy of this victory. If Cunha and Mount are not fit soon, this season could be very tough.