Troy Deeney on Matheus Cunha: “He looks like a man built for the spotlight”
Manchester United’s 2-1 triumph over Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday will be remembered as one of those statement victories that can shape a season. Under Ruben Amorim’s watchful eye, the Red Devils showed grit, discipline, and a spark of personality that has sometimes been missing in recent months. But while the headlines naturally focused on the result, one player’s performance quietly stole the attention of those who truly understand the game — Matheus Cunha.
The Brazilian forward may not yet have opened his account for United with a goal or assist, but his fingerprints were all over the match. His relentless energy, clever pressing, and willingness to do the dirty work made him one of the unsung heroes of the day.
Former Premier League striker Troy Deeney was among those who took notice. Speaking passionately on BBC’s Match of the Day, Deeney praised Cunha for displaying maturity and intelligence far beyond the stat sheet.
“I’ve been really impressed from the moment he signed,” Deeney said. “Even from his Instagram posts, he seems like someone who wants all of the pressure.”
It’s not often you hear a player praised for their social media presence, but Deeney’s point was clear — Cunha exudes confidence and accountability. He doesn’t shy away from expectation; he seems to crave it.
Deeney went on to dissect Cunha’s influence late in the game, particularly as Liverpool pushed forward in search of an equaliser. “We were saying after about 60 minutes — the guys yesterday were talking about the Brazilian lads looking really tired for Newcastle — everything we’re showing is from the 83rd minute onwards. It was really smart play against Liverpool.”
That “smart play” Deeney referred to was evident in Cunha’s game management. In the dying moments, he didn’t just run; he thought. He pressed at the right times, won key fouls, and tracked back with the kind of determination that turns a good forward into a great teammate. Amorim’s system demands high intensity and tactical awareness, and Cunha seems to thrive under both.
There’s also something undeniably magnetic about the way Cunha carries himself — both on and off the pitch. Whether he’s posting motivational captions on Instagram or flashing a grin after a tough tackle, he projects the image of a player ready to shoulder responsibility. And for a club like Manchester United, still rebuilding its identity, that kind of mentality might be just as valuable as goals and assists.
Deeney’s comments feel like more than simple pundit praise; they’re a recognition of a player who understands the moment he’s in. Matheus Cunha may not yet have exploded statistically, but performances like this — the selfless running, the tactical sharpness, the composure under pressure — show why he could soon become a fan favourite at Old Trafford.
In a game defined by big names and bigger egos, Cunha’s quiet authority stood out. He’s not chasing the spotlight. He’s owning it.
