Mason Mount’s Rebirth at Manchester United: Does the Bench Now Beckon for Matheus Cunha?
As Mason Mount begins to show signs of a genuine revival at Manchester United, an inevitable question emerges: could his resurgence push big-money signing Matheus Cunha toward the bench?
Cunha arrived at Old Trafford amid great expectations. The former Wolverhampton Wanderers forward was seen as the kind of transformative signing reminiscent of Eric Cantona — a player meant to elevate United’s attack. Costing around £62.5 million (roughly $83 million), he was expected to become the club’s new centerpiece. Yet, seven games into the season across all competitions, Cunha has failed to register a goal or assist. His most memorable moment so far was unfortunately a missed penalty in a League Cup shootout loss — United’s first ever defeat to a lower-league side in that competition.
Mount, on the other hand, joined United from Chelsea as a player with much to prove after two injury-plagued seasons. His position in the squad seemed uncertain, especially following the arrivals of Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, and the continued dominance of captain Bruno Fernandes in midfield. However, the situation has shifted dramatically in recent weeks.
In United’s 2–0 win over Sunderland, Mount earned a starting spot and delivered a standout performance — a clear indication that manager Rúben Amorim currently places more faith in him than in Cunha. Having been rested during the international break while Cunha was away on duty with Brazil, Mount looked fresher and sharper, and his energy was evident throughout the match.
Cunha’s adaptation, meanwhile, has been far from smooth. Despite scoring 27 goals and providing 13 assists in two seasons with Wolves, he has struggled to make the same impact at Old Trafford. His missed penalty against Grimsby and a muscle injury suffered just 30 minutes into the Burnley game raised early doubts. More worryingly, United have yet to win a match in which Cunha has played at least 45 minutes.
Mount’s recent resurgence has impressed former players as well. Phil Jones praised his work ethic, saying, “If you’re a manager, you want him in your team. He might not be the best every game, but you’ll always get effort, intensity, and discipline.” Former captain Rio Ferdinand echoed that sentiment, describing Mount as “a presser, a worker, an anchor — the kind of player every coach wants.”
Manager Amorim himself highlighted Mount’s mentality: “I look into his eyes and see how much he wants it. That’s the most important thing.” The Portuguese coach is well aware of Mount’s previous struggles — the midfielder suffered a setback under Amorim last December, missing several weeks before returning strongly later in the season. Mount responded by scoring twice in the Europa League semi-final and earning a place in the starting XI for the final.
Following the Sunderland match, Amorim publicly praised Mount’s well-rounded contribution: “He defends smartly, attacks intelligently, and understands the game. He’s been outstanding.”
While Mount thrives, Cunha appears burdened by the weight of expectation. The Brazilian recently admitted in an interview that he initially struggled with being cast as an out-and-out No. 9, a role that doesn’t fully suit his natural game. At Wolves, he often operated as a second striker or attacking midfielder — freer, more creative, and less restricted. But at United, he was signed to deliver goals, not versatility, and that demand has yet to be met.
As the pressure builds, Mount’s form is becoming impossible to ignore. His blend of tactical awareness, pressing intensity, and smart movement fits perfectly into Amorim’s evolving system — something Cunha has yet to fully grasp.
Ultimately, United may be witnessing the rebirth of Mason Mount — a player once written off, now reclaiming his place as a vital cog in the team. For Matheus Cunha, however, the challenge is clear: either rediscover his spark soon or risk watching Mount continue to shine — from the comfort of the bench.