Ruben Amorim is preparing for his first full season as MUFC boss. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)
Michael Owen has poured praise on Manchester United’s first signing of the summer, Matheus Cunha.
The coveted attacker chose United over his host of other suitors back in May before officially making the move from Wolverhampton Wanderers when the window opened at the start of June.
Thankfully for Ruben Amorim, Cunha was added to his ranks in time for the start of pre-season, meaning he’s been able to plan for the campaign ahead having already assessed where the forward will best fit in his system.
United were quick to seal Matheus Cunha coup after he green-lit the deal
A deal for Cunha was considerably more straightforward than it was for Bryan Mbeumo, given United were able to simply activate his £62.5 million release clause. It’s thought they paid an upfront fee to the Molineux outfit before pledging the rest in instalments, allowing INEOS to have more funds in the bank to deposit on further acquisitions.
It came after a season in which the Brazilian international netted a stunning 17 (15 in the Premier League) goals in all competitions and recorded a further six assists in the 36 appearances he made.
He played an influential role in Wolves retaining their top-flight status following a turbulent start to 2024/2025, and the fact Cunha penned a contract extension in January meant the club were able to recuperate a sizeable fee from his departure to secure his replacement.
What Owen has said about Cunha
Before 2025/2026 – Cunha’s maiden season in red – gets underway, Owen said of the 26-year-old: “I think Cunha has got a little bit of magic about him. I love watching him play. The first moment I set eyes on him for Wolves, I just thought: ‘Oh wow, he’s a talented player.’
“I really rate him, and I don’t blame Manchester United for getting him. I think he’s so talented,” the Ballon d’Or winner told UtdDistrict, via AskGamblers.
