6 shots, 88% passing, two tackles: this fiery attacker was United’s standout performer vs Aston Villa

Manchester United were somewhat unfortunate to have suffered a 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa. While it was always going to be an uphill battle for Ruben Amorim’s side due to the absence of six regular players, Man United produced a gutsy performance, pushing the home side to the limit in what was a juicy contest. Several United players were impressive on the night, although one rising star was a cut above the rest. United’s firepower up front The United front line put in an aggressive performance, continuously pressuring the Villa defence. One player who was the heart and soul of the attack was Matheus Cunha. The Brazilian threatened the hosts’ defence since the second minute, with his surprise shot veering inches wide. As the first half went into stoppage time, it seemed that Villa would go into the breakwith the lead. Despite the hosts having just scored, United sought an instant reply, with Cunha racing into the box to equalise for his team. But the Brazilian’s impressive performance didn’t end there. Cunha’s game in numbers PlayerMatheus Cunha Goals1 Expected goals (xG)0.66 Assists0 Expected assists (xA)0.15 Total shots6 Expected goals on target (xGOT)0.6 Shots on target3 Shots blocked0 Big chances missed1 Touches66 Unsuccessful touches4 Dribbles (successful)2 (0) Was fouled2 Possession lost14 Key passes2 Crosses (accurate)3 (1) Accurate passes38/43 (88%) Passes in opposition half (acc.)24/29 (83%) Passes in own half (acc.)14/14 (100%) Long balls (accurate)1/2 (50%) Def. contributions2 Tackles (won)2 (1) Interceptions0 Clearances0 Blocked shots0 Recoveries7 Ground duels (won)7 (4) Aerial duels (won)2 (0) Fouls1 Dribbled past0 Cunha was a constant threat in the box, unleashing six shots. Three of his attempts were on target. He also got 38 of his 43 passes on target, for 88% passing accuracy. One of his three crosses found its target, while one of the two long balls was accurate. The attacker also completed two key passes. Cunha also showed flair with the ball at his feet, completing four of seven ground duels. Interestingly, he completed two tackles, showing some defensive prowess as well. Although United never got the result they wanted, Cunha’s efforts did well to inject the team with confidence as they look to navigate a challenging holiday period. (Stats via Sofascore) Featured image Alex Pantling via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Mathew Cohen A faithful Manchester United supporter, Mathew has worked as a football writer and analyst for SB Nation, FanSided, and now The Peoples Person. Mathew’s heroes include David Beckham, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Sir Alex Ferguson, all of whom played their part in creating some special childhood memories.