Matheus Cunha Delivers Frank Message to Michael Carrick After Match-Winning Impact
Matheus Cunha emerged as the decisive hero for Manchester United in their thrilling 3-2 victory over league leaders Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, but the Brazilian forward has since issued a clear warning to manager Michael Carrick regarding his recent role on the sidelines.
Late Winner Highlights Cunha's Importance
Coming off the bench to score an 87th-minute winner, Cunha secured a monumental three points for the Red Devils against the title-chasing Gunners. This crucial intervention marked just his fifth goal for the club since his high-profile transfer from Wolverhampton Wanderers, yet it underscored his potential to influence games at the highest level.
The 26-year-old has found himself among the substitutes in each of Carrick's first two matches in charge, a situation he addressed candidly in post-match interviews. "I know the quality of the group, everyone wants to play," Cunha told Sky Sports. "The important thing is to help the team and every single minute to give everything."
Cunha's Frustration and Determination
Despite his impactful contributions, Cunha's comments revealed an underlying frustration with his current bench role. He described the dramatic victory as "100 per cent [the] greatest moment in the shirt," adding: "These kind of games are the games we dreamed of playing. When I come to United, these are the games we watched on television and we want to be part of that. This is one of the best moments for me here."
His words serve as both a celebration of the achievement and a subtle reminder to Carrick of his desire for more consistent involvement in the starting lineup.
Teammate Support and Squad Depth
United captain Harry Maguire offered his perspective on both the victory and Cunha's situation, praising Carrick's immediate impact while acknowledging the forward's understandable discontent. "Michael [Carrick] has come in, and he’s been brilliant with us," Maguire stated. "He’s brought fresh energy, and the group has really galvanised."
Regarding Cunha specifically, Maguire added: "Players like Matheus coming off the bench, who I’m sure is not too happy sitting on the bench in the last two games - I know what he’s like, he wants to play - but I must say he has made the difference in the two games. He came on against City and changed the game, and today he’s made the difference for us."
Strategic Implications for United
This victory, following their previous win against Manchester City, has propelled United to fourth position in the Premier League table, overtaking fierce rivals Liverpool. The result demonstrates the squad depth available to Carrick, particularly with players returning from international duty.
Maguire emphasised this point, noting: "It just shows the squad of players we have and the attacking talent we have that can come on and do that." This depth presents Carrick with both a selection headache and a significant tactical advantage as United prepare to host Fulham at Old Trafford next weekend.
Looking Ahead
The situation creates an intriguing dynamic for Carrick's early tenure. While he has secured six points from two challenging fixtures, he must now manage the expectations of a match-winner clearly eager for more minutes. Cunha's performance against Arsenal has strengthened his case for regular inclusion, presenting Carrick with a positive selection dilemma as United aim to maintain their perfect start under his management.
How Carrick responds to Cunha's public message will be closely watched, as will the Brazilian's continued contributions in what promises to be a crucial period for Manchester United's season ambitions.
