Matheus Cunha has already given Manchester United a return on their trust, but the most telling praise may be coming from one of Brazil’s greatest attackers. Kaka has highlighted the forward’s tactical discipline and work ethic, describing the balance between team duty and creativity as the key to his game.
United signed Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers last summer as part of a major attacking rebuild, and the move has looked increasingly smart. He finished the campaign with 10 goals and four assists in 35 games across all competitions, while also showing the kind of flair that made him such an appealing target in the first place.
Kaka’s view on what makes Cunha stand out
Speaking on Rio Ferdinand Presents, the AC Milan and Brazil legend said Cunha’s biggest strength is how he now reads the game. Kaka pointed to the Brazilian’s willingness to do the “dirty work” for the team while still keeping his creativity intact.
“For me, it’s how he understands the game now. He’s working really hard tactically. Sometimes he does the work, the dirty work, to help the defenders and the defensive system. Also, he can use his creativity,” Kaka said.
He added that Cunha can still bring his “Brazilian style” into matches, but only because he accepts the demands of the team first. That combination has helped turn the forward into a more complete option for United.
A flexible weapon in Carrick’s plans
Cunha’s versatility adds another layer to his value. Last season, he played on the left wing, through the middle as a centre-forward, and is also capable of operating as a No. 10.
That flexibility matters for a United side that is still settling into life under Michael Carrick, whose permanent appointment has raised expectations for further improvement. With the team already making strides last season, Cunha’s ability to handle multiple roles gives the manager another reliable attacking option.
Kaka, United and a memorable European night
Kaka also revisited one of his most famous nights against United, when AC Milan met the Premier League side in the 2006/07 Champions League semi-finals. United won the first leg 3-2 at Old Trafford, but Kaka scored twice in a match that featured Cristiano Ronaldo’s opener and Wayne Rooney’s late winner.
He said the second of his two goals from that game was the most beautiful of his career, calling the tie “incredible.” Kaka also noted that Milan’s second-leg win in Italy was considered “the perfect game,” with the Rossoneri eventually beating Liverpool 2-1 in the final.
Why the praise matters now
For United, the endorsement reinforces the sense that Cunha was the right signing at the right time. The club moved early in the window to secure him, and his output, versatility and tactical work have already made him look like a useful piece in Carrick’s attack.
That leaves the next phase of United’s rebuild focused elsewhere, with midfield reinforcement likely to be the area that needs the same kind of decisive action this summer.