Matheus Cunha Shows Why He’s a Huge Upgrade on Alejandro Garnacho in Arsenal Clash

Manchester United may have fallen to a narrow 1-0 defeat against Arsenal on the opening weekend, but there were plenty of positives for Ruben Amorim to take away — none more so than the performance of new signing Matheus Cunha.

Bryan Mbeumo impressed on his debut from the right flank, constantly troubling Riccardo Calafiori and forcing David Raya into action. But it was Cunha, United’s £62.5 million summer signing, who stole the spotlight with a performance full of energy, flair, and end product.

Deployed as the focal point of Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system, Cunha frequently interchanged positions with Mason Mount and Mbeumo, drifting into dangerous areas both centrally and out wide. His fluid movement and confidence on the ball made United’s attack look far more dynamic compared to last season.

Cunha’s Dribbling Masterclass

Cunha’s numbers highlight just how effective he was. According to SofaScore:

88% passing accuracy 1 key pass created 4/6 successful dribbles (66%)

That dribbling stat is particularly significant. Cunha completed four take-ons against Arsenal, showing composure and technique in tight spaces — a quality United desperately lacked from the left last season.

Why He’s a Major Upgrade on Garnacho

With Benjamin Šeško still settling in, Cunha looks set to claim a regular spot on the left side of Amorim’s front three — the role Alejandro Garnacho occupied last season.

But while Garnacho frustrated with his inconsistency, Cunha appears to be the complete opposite. Garnacho finished the 2024/25 campaign as the Premier League’s least efficient dribbler, posting a success rate of just 21%. His struggles in one-on-one situations often killed attacking momentum for United.

Cunha, by contrast, is already proving to be one of the league’s most effective ball-carriers. His directness, close control, and ability to beat defenders immediately add a new dimension to United’s attack.

A Promising Sign for Amorim’s United

After the final whistle, Bruno Fernandes praised Cunha but insisted there is still more to come from the Brazilian — a frightening thought for opposition defenders.

While United’s defeat to Arsenal will sting, the emergence of Cunha as a genuine attacking threat offers plenty of encouragement. If he maintains this level, United fans may soon forget about Garnacho’s departure — and start believing they’ve upgraded significantly.

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