Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim identified Matheus Cunha as his absolute priority signing this summer, acting swiftly to secure the Brazilian forward for £62.5 million following a pivotal private conversation.
The Tunnel Exchange That Sparked a Transfer
The seeds for the transfer were sown last season after Wolverhampton Wanderers secured a victory at Old Trafford. Amorim, who had long been an admirer of Cunha's talents, seized a moment in the tunnel post-match to speak with the player directly. The United boss reportedly asked Cunha for his thoughts on the atmosphere at the 'Theatre of Dreams', planting an early seed about a potential future at the club.
This brief exchange was more than mere pleasantries; it was the first step in a concerted charm offensive. Amorim then took his case to the United board, delivering a compelling sales pitch. He emphasised not only Cunha's proven quality on the pitch but also his strong character and, crucially, his tactical versatility. The Brazilian's ability to operate effectively across multiple forward positions was a key asset the Portuguese coach was determined to bring to Manchester.
Securing the Dream Signing
Amorim's pursuit proved successful, with Cunha becoming his inaugural signing of the summer transfer window. The move was facilitated by a release clause in the contract Cunha had signed with Wolves just a year prior. For the player, the transfer fulfilled a childhood ambition. Cunha revealed that Manchester United had been his favourite English team since watching Premier League games in Brazil at his grandmother's house, making the switch a dream realised.
Despite a recent injury setback, Cunha has rapidly become integral to Amorim's plans, adding significant bite to an attacking line that also includes Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko. He has already delivered several important moments for the Red Devils. However, Amorim believes there is even more to come from his star signing, suggesting Cunha is still adapting to the heightened pressure at a club of United's stature.
Proven Quality and High Praise
Cunha's credentials were undeniable, having scored 17 goals for Wolves in the previous campaign. His quality was acknowledged by rival managers, with Liverpool's Arne Slot stating last season that the forward was capable of playing for any top-six side. Cunha promptly demonstrated that ability with a superb individual goal in Wolves' subsequent match at Anfield.
Amorim recently commented on Cunha's development, stating: "I think he has more levels to go. He's at a different club, with different pressure, but I think he copes with that really well. He was struggling because he was not scoring and because of social media views, he was thinking too much about the numbers, but the influence that he has in the team is so important for us."
The strategic capture of Matheus Cunha, initiated by a determined manager's conversation in an Old Trafford tunnel, stands as a defining early move in the Ruben Amorim era at Manchester United.
