Matheus Cunha opens up on his £62.5 million switch to Manchester United, revealing what led him to ignore the noise and move to Old Trafford.
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Cunha becomes United's first signing Explains decision to join the Red Devils Reveals 'dream come true' at Old Trafford Follow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
Manchester United have unveiled Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha as their first summer signing, with the former Wolves star completing a £62.5 million move to Old Trafford. Speaking in his first official interview since joining the club, the 26-year-old opened up about the emotional reasons behind the decision. The Brazilian’s strong campaign at Wolves — where he netted 15 goals and added six assists — made him one of the most in-demand forwards in the league.
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Cunha’s arrival marks the start of Ruben Amorim’s rebuild at United, with the Red Devils aiming to bounce back after a turbulent season. But it was United, not a Champions League club, that won his heart, and he has fought back against criticism of his move.
Getty ImagesWHAT CUNHA SAID
Speaking to club media, Cunha said: “Maybe outside, I think maybe my decision, they don’t understand. But when you have always dreamed to play here, it’s easier to pick this decision. For me, no one else is like United. Of course, I know it’s been a hard season for everyone. I think my decision shows what this club means to me, and what I believe it can be again.”
Cunha also credited new manager Ruben Amorim for convincing him to make the move. I have a lot of faith in him. I hope he succeeds in conquering the world like he did in Portugal. I’m here to help the team — and to help him. All our discussions made my decision easier. You feel when a coach believes in you.”
The Brazilian went on to describe the emotional roots of his love for United: "It’s hard to explain. Only my grandma had the channel to watch the Premier League, so on weekends we would go to her house just to watch the games. My cousin supported United. He showed me the team, the players, the passion. When we played on the gravel pitch in Brazil, we used to call it ‘Old Trafford’. That’s how it started for me.”
Cunha also paid tribute to his idol, Wayne Rooney: "Rooney was the No. 10 and he gave everything. He tackled, he pressed, he fought. That kind of energy — I try to bring that to my game. I could name so many… Ronaldo, Ryan Giggs, Scholes, Carrick, Rio, Vidic. That whole team had a big impact on my teenage years.”
Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT FOR CUNHA?
Cunha will link up with his new teammates in pre-season, where he’s expected to play a leading role in Amorim’s attacking system. The Brazilian becomes a key pillar of United’s rebuild — and he’s made it clear he’s not just here to play, he’s here because he believes that the Red Devils can rise from the ashes.