Manchester United Legend Voices Concern Over £62.5m Signing's Role
Former Manchester United midfielder Nicky Butt has openly expressed his sympathy for Matheus Cunha, following the Brazilian forward's recent appearances as a substitute under new manager Michael Carrick. The £62.5 million summer signing from Wolves has found himself starting on the bench in United's last two matches, despite contributing significantly to both victories.
Impactful Cameo Performances From the Bench
Cunha made a decisive impact in Manchester United's dramatic 3-2 victory over Arsenal on Sunday, scoring a late winner that secured all three points for the Red Devils. This followed his influential performance against Manchester City in Carrick's first game in charge, where he provided the cross for Patrick Dorgu's opening goal in a 2-0 triumph.
The 26-year-old Brazilian has demonstrated his value to the team despite his reduced playing time, with both goals coming during his appearances as a second-half substitute. This situation has prompted discussion among United legends about Cunha's potential dissatisfaction with his current role within Carrick's tactical setup.
Scholes and Butt Analyse the Selection Dilemma
Speaking on The Good, The Bad and The Football podcast, Paul Scholes acknowledged the difficult position Cunha finds himself in, stating emphatically that the forward "won't be happy" with being considered primarily as an impact substitute. Scholes noted that Carrick has shown clear preference for Dorgu in the starting lineup, despite Cunha's substantial transfer fee and proven quality.
Butt interjected during the discussion to express his personal feelings about the situation, saying: "Cunha's giving you an option off the bench and I do feel a bit sorry." The former United midfielder elaborated on the psychological challenge facing high-profile players when they find themselves in supporting roles rather than as regular starters.
Injury Crisis May Force Tactical Reconsideration
The landscape may be shifting for Cunha following news that Patrick Dorgu is set for approximately ten weeks on the sidelines with a hamstring injury. This development could potentially open the door for the Brazilian to reclaim a starting position when United face Fulham this coming Sunday.
Butt analysed the broader implications of Dorgu's absence, suggesting that Cunha might now find himself in a difficult psychological position. "He might find himself in a bad position now, Cunha, thinking, 'I'm a really good sub to bring on, I carry the ball up the pitch, I get the fouls, kill the clock when we're winning and I can score goals' - he could end up being a super sub," Butt explained.
Competition for Places Intensifies at Old Trafford
The discussion also touched upon the form of other United attackers, with particular praise directed toward Bryan Mbeumo's performances as a central striker. Butt acknowledged that Mbeumo has been "brilliant as a nine" and has performed his role exceptionally well, presenting Carrick with additional selection headaches.
This creates a challenging environment for Cunha, who may now be contemplating an extended period on the substitutes' bench despite his game-changing abilities. The Brazilian's situation highlights the complex decisions facing modern football managers when balancing squad depth, player morale, and tactical requirements.
As Manchester United prepare for their upcoming fixture against Fulham, all eyes will be on whether Carrick elects to promote Cunha to the starting lineup following Dorgu's injury, or whether he continues to utilise the Brazilian as an impact substitute from the bench.
