Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim made Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha his undisputed priority signing this summer, acting swiftly to secure the £62.5 million deal after a pivotal private exchange last season.
The Tunnel Chat That Sparked A Transfer
The wheels for the transfer were set in motion following Wolverhampton Wanderers' victory at Old Trafford last term. Amorim sought out Cunha in the stadium tunnel for a brief but significant conversation. The United boss reportedly asked the then-Wolves star for his thoughts on the atmosphere inside the 'Theatre of Dreams', planting an early seed about a potential future move.
This impromptu meeting only solidified Amorim's long-standing admiration for the player. Following the Europa League final defeat to Tottenham, the Portuguese coach immediately turned his attention to recruitment, with Cunha at the very top of his list.
Amorim's Persuasive Pitch to the Board
To secure the funds for the major acquisition, Amorim presented a compelling case to the United hierarchy. He emphasised not only Cunha's proven quality on the pitch but also his strong character and, crucially, his tactical versatility across the frontline.
This versatility has already been showcased this season, with Cunha slotting into various attacking roles. Despite signing a new contract with Wolves in late 2024, the agreement contained a release clause that ultimately facilitated a smooth exit to Manchester for the sought-after forward.
Integral to United's New-Look Attack
Since becoming Amorim's inaugural summer signing, Cunha has quickly established himself as a key component of United's refreshed attacking strategy, barring a spell sidelined through injury. He has formed part of a more potent forward line alongside additions like Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko, providing the team with a cutting edge that was often missing previously.
Amorim believes there is even more to come from his marquee signing. "I think he has more levels to go," the manager stated recently. "He's at a different club, under different pressure, but I think he copes with that really well." Amorim acknowledged that Cunha had been overly concerned with scoring statistics early on but stressed that his overall influence on the team's play is immense.
Cunha's pedigree was undeniable, having scored 17 goals for Wolves last season. His talent was publicly praised by Liverpool manager Arne Slot, who claimed the Brazilian could play for any top-six side—a statement Cunha backed up by scoring a superb goal at Anfield.
For the player himself, the move fulfilled a childhood ambition. "Ever since I was a child in Brazil watching Premier League games on TV at my grandmother’s house, United was my favourite English team and I dreamed of wearing the red shirt," Cunha revealed upon signing. This lifelong dream undoubtedly made Amorim's task of persuasion that much easier, culminating in a major transfer that began with a few words in an Old Trafford tunnel.
