Manchester United’s latest win over Manchester City will live long in the memory of fans, with one player making an underrated contribution to the victory, one that Thierry Henry has now praised.
We are a few days withdrawn from Manchester United beating City 2-0 in front of a packed Old Trafford, but still the game remains fresh in the memory.
Michael Carrick’s third debut for United, following being a player and a previous interim head coach, and he passed once again with flying colours.
Against City, United’s players were all on top form, which gave the visitors absolutely no chance, with Pep Guardiola left scratching his head, with the attack being the most eye-catching part of the performance, with such quality.
Now, one member of the attacking department has drawn praise from Thierry Henry.
Michael Carrick is off to the PERFECT START at Man Utd, and he wants more!
Why do you think it went SO RIGHT for Carrick against City?
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Matheus Cunha’s impact from the bench is Manchester United’s strength
There was a degree of eyebrows raised after Carrick decided to drop Matheus Cunha to the bench for the derby game, although ultimately, the decision cannot be questioned given the success.
Cunha did impress from the bench, grabbing an assist, and he should have had a second if not for a controversial offside.
Manchester United's Brazilian striker #10 Matheus Cunha celebrates after supplying the cross for their second goal during the English Premier League football match between Manchester United and Manchester City at Old Trafford in Manchester, north west England, on January 17, 2026
Photo by Darren Staples / AFP via Getty Images
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Cunha was at his very best after coming off the bench, clearly trying to play his way into a start against Arsenal. While analysing the game, the Brazilian earned praise from Henry on Sky Sports.
“I love what Cunha does,” Henry explained.
“Because when he plays or comes on, he always brings something extra. Here, that’s the sheer desire of wanting, both him passing his guy and Dorgu attacking the ball. That goal summarised what was in the team and what wasn’t.
“When Cunha picks up the ball, they’re not in real danger, but there is a sheer wanting to do something and look at this moment, nobody is in the box yet, only Dorgu attacking the ball.”
After the game, Carrick also praised Cunha for his impact in the game, and there is a serious chance he has earned the start vs Arsenal.
What should be Manchester United’s front three against Arsenal?
Only three can start…. who are you picking?
Amad
Benjamin Sesko
Bryan Mbeumo
Joshua Zirkzee
Matheus Cunha
Mason Mount
Shea Lacey
Amad and Bryan Mbeumo celebrate
Photo by Darren Staples / AFP via Getty Images
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Matheus Cunha should start against Arsenal
Cunha not starting against City was the right call despite his excellent performance after being brought on.
United went for speed, and this paid off as City’s shaky backline struggled to stop the forwards from running them ragged, and it could have actually been 5-0 or more.
But against City, there will be fewer opportunities to counter quickly, with Mikel Arteta’s side more conservative than Guardiola’s.
Therefore, Cunha’s dribbling through the lines, power and ability to create from nothing will be vital.
Cunha could start up front against the Gunners, with Mbeumo on the right, with the physical defence likely to play into Cunha’s hands.
Whatever the decision from Carrick is, we completely trust it will be the right one.
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