How Man Utd’s Pursuit of Matheus Cunha Will Be Affected by Europa League Defeat
Manchester United’s Europa League defeat has cast a long shadow over their summer plans — and at the heart of that uncertainty lies their pursuit of Wolves forward Matheus Cunha. Once considered a realistic target to help inject pace and creativity into United’s inconsistent front line, Cunha’s potential move to Old Trafford now hangs in the balance following the club’s failure to qualify for next season’s Champions League.
While European competition remains a significant draw for top-level talent, missing out on the Champions League — and even a Europa League spot, depending on other results — brings both financial and reputational consequences. For United, who continue to undergo a structural overhaul under INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s guidance, this latest setback may force a reassessment of transfer priorities, valuations, and ambitions.
United’s Attack: In Need of Reinvention
United’s 2024/25 campaign exposed serious flaws in their attacking setup. Rasmus Højlund, though promising, remains raw and inconsistent. Marcus Rashford had a difficult season plagued by form issues and off-field distractions, while Antony and Jadon Sancho have failed to live up to expectations. Alejandro Garnacho has emerged as a bright spark, but the club desperately needs another attacker who can stretch defences, link up effectively, and contribute goals regularly.
That’s where Matheus Cunha comes in.
The 25-year-old Brazilian forward has enjoyed a standout season at Wolverhampton Wanderers, becoming one of the most effective attackers outside the Premier League’s traditional top six. With his combination of dribbling, pressing intensity, positional intelligence, and finishing, Cunha has attracted interest not only from United but from clubs across Europe. His versatility — capable of playing as a false nine, second striker, or even wide forward — makes him a particularly attractive option for a team in transition.
Europa League Defeat: A Setback in More Ways Than One
United’s defeat in the Europa League semifinals not only denied them a shot at silverware but also compounded their failure to finish in the top four of the Premier League. This means that their participation in European competition next season, at best, will be in the UEFA Conference League — a far cry from the stage many of their targets aspire to.
This affects the Cunha pursuit in several key ways:
1. Financial Constraints
United’s revenue drop due to the lack of Champions League football is significant. UEFA’s top-tier competition brings in tens of millions in broadcasting rights, sponsorship bonuses, and matchday revenue. Without it, United may need to tighten their budget — and with Financial Fair Play (FFP) restrictions in play, big-money signings like Cunha (who could cost upwards of £50 million) may be harder to justify.
While INEOS is committed to long-term investment, they are also reportedly prioritising smart, sustainable spending. Cunha, who only joined Wolves permanently last year for around £43 million, will not come cheap. Wolves also have little incentive to sell unless a substantial offer is made.
2. Player Ambitions
Cunha, despite being grateful for his platform at Wolves, has made no secret of his desire to play in Europe’s elite competitions. The Brazilian forward is entering the peak years of his career, and moving to a club outside the Champions League picture may not align with his personal goals — especially with a Copa America and a World Cup on the horizon.
Reports suggest that Cunha’s camp is open to a move but would expect assurances about squad investment, ambition, and playing style. The lack of European exposure may allow other suitors — such as Tottenham or clubs abroad — to step in with stronger propositions, particularly if they can offer continental football and a clearer project.
3. Managerial Uncertainty
United’s managerial situation adds another layer of complexity. With Erik ten Hag’s future in doubt and INEOS conducting a thorough end-of-season review, targets like Cunha may hesitate to commit to a club without knowing who will be at the helm. Stability and vision matter to players, especially those considering a major career move.
If a new manager such as Ruben Amorim or Thomas Tuchel comes in, it may alter the club’s transfer strategy. Amorim, for instance, has a history of building around younger, tactical players from the Portuguese league — and may prefer other options to Cunha. On the other hand, a manager like Tuchel could prioritise more experienced, high-profile attackers.
Wolves’ Position: Playing Hardball
Wolves are under no pressure to sell Matheus Cunha, particularly after he signed a long-term deal and delivered an impressive return of goals and assists. The Midlands club sees Cunha as a central piece of their attack, and any approach from a Premier League rival — especially a giant like Manchester United — will be met with firm resistance unless the valuation exceeds expectations.
Moreover, Wolves have ambitions of their own. Under Gary O’Neil, the club has evolved into a tactically disciplined unit, with Cunha playing a critical role in transition and link-up play. Losing him would be a major blow unless they receive a fee that enables proper reinvestment.
United’s weakened bargaining position — due to lack of European competition and the uncertain managerial landscape — gives Wolves more leverage in any potential negotiations.
Alternatives to Cunha
Should the Cunha pursuit stall, United have reportedly lined up alternatives. Players like Jonathan David (Lille), Serhou Guirassy (Stuttgart), and Lois Openda (RB Leipzig) have all been scouted. While these players may offer similar skill sets at potentially lower fees, none bring the Premier League-proven ability that Cunha possesses.
Additionally, United could choose to focus on internal development, giving Amad Diallo more minutes or reverting Marcus Rashford to a central role. However, such moves carry risk, especially given the inconsistency shown by the existing squad.
The Verdict: Uncertainty Prevails
Manchester United’s pursuit of Matheus Cunha is now in a delicate position. The Europa League defeat has not only weakened their financial clout but also damaged the club’s appeal to top-tier talents looking for Champions League exposure. While United’s name and history still carry weight, the reality is that other clubs may now hold the upper hand in negotiations.
The club’s next moves — including who leads the team from the dugout and what kind of transfer budget INEOS provides — will ultimately determine whether the Cunha deal can be revived. But unless swift action is taken to clarify direction and restore confidence, United may find that one of their most realistic attacking targets slips through their fingers.
In short, missing out on Europe didn’t just cost Un
ited a trophy — it may cost them their next star forward.
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