Manchester United legend Sammy McIlroy has backed new signing Matheus Cunha to bring flair, fight, and much-needed firepower to Old Trafford but has urged the Brazilian forward to keep his temper in check, Softfootball reports.
Cunha joined United from Wolves last month in a £62.5 million deal, signing a five-year contract with the option of a further year. The 26-year-old becomes the first major addition under Ruben Amorim, as the club looks to bounce back from their worst-ever Premier League finish.
Speaking to SportsBoom, McIlroy was full of praise for the former Atlético Madrid star, calling him “the type of player who will set United fans alight.”
He continued by speaking highly of the Brazilian skills and charisma, saying that
“He’s skilful, he can score, and he makes things happen exactly what we’ve lacked,”
said McIlroy.
“But he’s a character, too, and sometimes he gets wound up. You don’t mind a bit of fire, so long as it doesn’t take him off the pitch.”
The former Northern Ireland international compared Cunha’s edge to the swagger of Eric Cantona, saying,
“You want a bit of strut, someone who understands what it means to play for Manchester United. Cunha has that.”
Cunha arrives with a proven record in England, netting 29 Premier League goals in two and a half seasons at Molineux. McIlroy added that the performance of Cunha for Wolves is a compelling one that can help United next season.
“He scored 15 in a struggling Wolves team, give him better service and who knows what he’ll do.”
Meanwhile, United are still in the business of getting Bryan Mbeumo, as the deal is said to be going smoothly between the English giants and Brentford.
As reported by Softfootball earlier, Manchester United step up Mbeumo pursuit, aiming to finalise the deal within the week. Mbeumo, who has pledged his commitment to joining United, is refusing discussions with other suitors.
Man United are prepared to offer €40 million plus add-ons to land Ruben Amorim’s key target for their attacking overhaul. Mbeumo is set to arrive at United in the coming week before the Reds depart for their tour.
