Manchester United aims for a fourth consecutive win before the Africa Cup of Nations! Amolin confirms Cunha’s return and comments on his goal drought

Manchester United manager Rúben Amorim confirmed that the £62.5 million signing Cunha is set to return for Thursday’s home fixture against West Ham United, while two other players remain questionable for participation. He did not reveal who those two players are. The Red Devils currently have two injured players, Maguire and Sheshko, but they seem to be definite absences rather than doubts. Both Maguire and Sheshko were injured during the 2-2 draw with Tottenham and have been sidelined for three weeks.

“We have two players who are doubtful for this match, which could affect how we prepare. I don’t want to disclose who they are today; let’s wait and see if they can play tomorrow,” Amorim said at the pre-match press conference. “The rest of the squad is in good shape. Matheus (Cunha) is fit, while Harry (Maguire) and Sheshko are still out injured.”

Since joining Manchester United, Cunha has scored only one goal in 11 appearances. Amorim acknowledged there is significant room for improvement but also advised the 26-year-old Brazilian international not to focus too much on personal stats or social media criticism, warning against letting it negatively affect his form. Cunha will compete for a starting spot alongside last match’s goal scorers, Żirkze and Mason Mount.

“I believe he has even greater potential to unlock,” Amorim explained. “He is now playing for a different club under more pressure, and I think he has adapted well to the challenge. His struggles come from not scoring and being too fixated on statistics. In reality, his role in the team is crucial for us. However, I agree that Cunha has plenty of room to improve both offensively and defensively.”

If Manchester United beats West Ham at home, they can rise to fifth place in the Premier League, securing at least a Europa League spot and possibly even a Champions League position. A nine-goal victory could even push them directly into the top four! Although this is highly unlikely, Amorim cautioned the team against underestimating their opponents. Despite West Ham sitting 18th in the relegation zone and key player Paqueta suspended due to a red card, the Red Devils’ manager still praised West Ham’s coach Nuno Espírito Santo.

Amorim said, “I have no doubt that Nuno will succeed. He is experienced, knows how to work with different teams, and has a deep understanding of the league. We know it will be a tough match, and he prepares his team excellently. While it’s important to consider the opponent when preparing, my main focus is on what Manchester United needs to do and which areas we must improve.”

Before Mbemo, Amad Diallo, and Mazraoui depart for the Africa Cup of Nations, Manchester United’s remaining two opponents are away against Wolves and at home versus Bournemouth. Winning both matches could enable Amorim to achieve his first four-match winning streak as manager.

Starting December 21 against Aston Villa, Manchester United will face the challenge of missing Mbemo, Amad, and Mazraoui. Amorim hinted that 18-year-old prospect Shea Lacy might get an opportunity. “If the team establishes a system, knows how to play, and feels comfortable without any doubts, that will benefit the youngster,” Amorim said. “The Premier League’s physicality, pressure, speed, ball control, and passing rhythm are completely different from the U21 level. He will have chances; he is ready to play, but I don’t know when.”

Portuguese full-back Diogo Dalot may also return to the right flank. Amorim stated, “Like other players, there are many areas where he can improve. Diogo is very strong when performing well, but sometimes his form dips. He is versatile, capable on both sides, and excellent at throw-ins. This greatly helps the team’s lineup, so he is important to the squad. However, like his teammates, he also needs to work on his development.”

Young Manchester United center-back Lenny Yaro made several errors in the match against Crystal Palace and was substituted early in the second half. Amorim revealed that the French defender needs reassurance. “This is really important. I spoke with him because he overthinks and naturally feels upset after mistakes. He wants to do everything perfectly, but he is still growing. Experiencing matches and setbacks is not easy for a young player. The way he walked off to the bench showed this; he shouldn’t have felt that way, and he knows it himself. But it shows how much he cares and that he understands it wasn’t his best performance.”