Manchester United forward Matheus Cunha left a positive impression in a defeat to Arsenal on his debut.
Matheus Cunha was selected as a starter at a packed Old Trafford as Manchester United took on Arsenal.
An early goal from Riccardo Calafiori tipped the game in Arsenal’s favour, and despite an impressive attacking performance, United could not find an equalising goal.
New signings Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo were at the heart of everything positive from Manchester United.
Cunha impressed United fans and pundits alike, and clocked the fastest speed of any Manchester United player.
We checked in to see how Cunha’s performance was reported in his homeland of Brazil.
Matheus Cunha reacts during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Arsenal at Old Trafford in 2025 in Manchester, England.
Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images
It was impossible not to notice Matheus Cunha’s performance, with the former Wolves forward causing Arsenal problems.
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Brazilian newspaper Jornal da Paraiba wrote: “Matheus Cunha had an afternoon of mixed emotions in his Premier League debut for Manchester United this Sunday. The striker had a great match but ended up suffering a defeat.”
They added that Cunha was one of United’s best players, adding: “He was more of a playmaker and provided his new teammates with excellent support.”
UOL Esporte wrote: “Manchester United’s new number 10 was the standout performer, both among the Brazilians on the field and among the debutants.
“A fiery player, Cunha created dangerous chances for himself and his teammates, touching the ball in practically every attacking move by United”.
Globo noted: “Matheus Cunha had a strong performance, with plenty of movement and involvement in plays.”
SBT Sports added: “Brazilian Matheus Cunha showed great determination and was by far the Red Devils’ most dangerous player. He sought out shots and provided intelligent assists, justifying the £62 million the club paid Wolverhampton Wanderers for his signing.”
Matheus Cunha performance shows promise
Matheus Cunha’s performance left Manchester United fans something positive to cling on to, despite the opening day loss.
United registered 22 shots at goal, with Cunha attempting four and landing three on target. If he can continue to play like this, he will score plenty of goals for United.
Cunha scored 15 goals for Wolves in the Premier League last season, while Bryan Mbeumo netted 20 goals for Brentford.
Mbeumo was also lively, constantly testing Arsenal’s backline, and the Gunners were fortunate to escape with a clean sheet.
United face Fulham and Burnley in the next two Premier League games, and will want to get two wins on the board, before facing Manchester City.