The first domino for Manchester United’s transfer window looks to be falling way earlier than usual as the links to Matheus Cunha gain pace.
Man Utd’s interest in Matheus Cunha goes back a long way and after recent reports, it looks like Cunha is on his way to Man Utd.
He’s tormented United numerous times and his suitability as an attacking midfielder in a 3-4-3 formation makes him an ideal fit for Ruben Amorim.
However, Cunha’s United move will also be the biggest litmus test for one key man at Old Trafford and it could make or break his tenure.
Matheus Cunha transfer poses unique risk
While it goes without saying that every signing is a gamble and a plunge into the unknown, the worrying thing about Cunha is what’s already known about him.
Cunha is undoubtedly a mercurial talent capable of winning games on his own on a good day, but there’s an asterisk attached.
That asterisk has to do with his acts of unprofessionalism and his penchant for controversies, either against the opposition or seeking conflict within.
Be it his scuffle with Ipswich’s backroom staff or his constant hinting of a move away from Wolves, he’s a player who needs to be kept in check all the time to get the best out of him.
To unleash the best of such a player while keeping his worst in check, the most important person at the club is the one who sits in the dugout.
Cunha’s transfer is make or break for Ruben Amorim and the skill he’s known for the most.
Ruben Amorim’s man-management will be tested by Cunha
Modern football management is arguably more about man management than it is about tactical details, especially at top clubs.
It is a huge reason why Amorim came as such a highly-rated coach, since his ability to form bonds with the players and get them running through walls for him made him a stand out.
If and when Cunha arrives, it would be a major test of Amorim’s ability to manage the Brazilian with the right dose of carrot and stick.
It was comparatively easy to go “my way or the highway” approach with the likes of Marcus Rashford because he wasn’t a player “signed” under his watch.
If Amorim falls out that way with Cunha, it would put a big question mark on his ability and how much he can be trusted with players in the market.
On the other hand, managing Cunha’s talents masterfully will strengthen his hand and make United stronger by a huge margin.
It’s a sink-or-swim type of deal and one that reflects the board’s huge trust in Amorim’s man-management capabilities.
Because if there was ever a player who demanded the most management, it’s Cunha.
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
