Former striker Michael Owen has spoken out to caution coach Ruben Amorim about the attitude and mindset of his new pupil Matheus Cunha. Owen considers the MU newcomer highly skilled and talented but requiring more refinement in personality.
In the summer of 2025, MU spent as much as £62.5 million to acquire Matheus Cunha from Wolves. Throughout the recent pre-season, Cunha impressed in friendly matches and made his official Premier League debut in the defeat against Arsenal. Last season, he shone brightly with 15 goals and 6 assists, but his fiery playing style also sparked controversy. His stats could have been even better if he hadn’t missed some games due to suspension.
In a recent statement, Owen said Cunha’s talent is unquestionable, but his hot temper might pose a problem at Old Trafford, where a strong-willed player like Bruno Fernandes and a decisive coach like Ruben Amorim are already present.
Owen’s perspective on this issue is as follows: "I have never doubted Cunha’s ability. My only concern is his attitude. Cunha often gets sent off because of his hot-headedness. Sometimes, in certain moments, he throws his arms around recklessly and risks getting booked. He will need to control himself because if not, Bruno Fernandes will warn him and Amorim won’t overlook it. Talent-wise, Cunha definitely has it. Joining a great club like MU might be the environment that helps him improve.”
Additionally, Owen compared Cunha to another Manchester United newcomer, Bryan Mbeumo, whom the former Newcastle and Liverpool player sees as "completely opposite" to Cunha. Owen believes Mbeumo is a safer choice and addresses the attacking issues that the Red Devils have lacked for years.
Regarding Mbeumo, Owen stated: "Mbeumo is probably the complete opposite of Cunha. Step by step, you will see what you expect over time: direct, agile, capable of scoring with both feet. Sesko? I haven’t watched him much, but he is a very quality signing with great potential.”