Manchester United have been handed a significant fitness boost ahead of their crucial Premier League encounter with West Ham United this Thursday.
Timely Return for Key Forward
The positive news comes from forward Matheus Cunha, who has resumed training after a spell on the sidelines. The Brazilian missed United's last two matches following an accident in training. Cunha announced his comeback on social media on December 1, 2025, posting an image from the training ground with the caption: 'Back back back!'
It remains to be seen if the 26-year-old will be fit enough to start against the Hammers at Old Trafford, with manager Ruben Amorim set to provide a full update in his pre-match press conference.
United's Mixed Form and Defensive Updates
This boost arrives as United look to build momentum. The team suffered a disappointing 1-0 defeat to ten-man Everton last Monday but responded with a 2-1 comeback victory away at Crystal Palace at the weekend. United fell behind to a Jean-Philippe Mateta penalty but second-half goals from Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount secured the win, moving the Red Devils up to seventh in the Premier League table.
There was further encouraging news in defence as Lisandro Martinez made his long-awaited return from a serious knee injury. The Argentine defender came on as a late substitute against Palace, nearly ten months after suffering an ACL injury.
However, not all news is positive. Harry Maguire remains out with a hamstring issue, while summer signing Benjamin Sesko is still unavailable after getting injured against Tottenham before the November international break. Amorim confirmed Sesko's recovery "will take a little bit longer" than Cunha's.
Pressure on Big-Money Signing
Cunha's return will be closely watched, as the £62.5million signing from Wolves has yet to fully find his feet at Old Trafford. In his first 10 league appearances this season, he has managed just one goal and no assists. His impact has been overshadowed by fellow new arrivals Bryan Mbeumo (5 goals) and Benjamin Sesko (2 goals).
With a quick turnaround before Thursday's match, Amorim will be hoping Cunha's return can provide a fresh attacking option as United aim to continue their climb up the table.
