According to Joe Cole, Manchester United’s purchase of Mateus Cunha is “gambling,” and the former Chelsea midfielder is linked to the Brazilian “Maverick” character.
As Cunha discussed the move at the TNT Sports breakdown show, Cole said:
“But whenever I hear little things about his attitude, I’m not saying he’s a bad young man because I don’t want to say that, but he’s a bit of a Maverick.”
Cole added: “The last guy (and) that the dressing room needs is another Maverick. Mavericks are everywhere. And they put things on social media and so on. You can hear them coming out of too many dressing rooms.
“So it’s gambling, Cunha.”
Owen Hargreaves has questioned United’s summer acquisition from a tactical standpoint.
During the disastrous campaign at Old Trafford where United endured their worst Premier League finish, midfielder Bruno Fernandez and wide player Amado Diallo were two bright sparks.
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“When they need their charms to deliver…” – Fernandez completes hat trick
Video Credit: TNT Sports
Hargreaves believes that much of United’s summer business may be strengthened in these regions.
Discussing the arrival of Cunha and Mbeumo, Hargreaves said:
“The only thing I say is, based on the way Reuben plays, he signed two players to play the positions of the two best players at the moment. You know, Fernandez is ten and maybe Amado can claim there is there for the wingback.
“So Mbeumo will probably play there and Kuña will play there. And its formation, although very strict on top of that, is a great signature.”
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Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha Holding Summer Series Trophy
Image credits: Getty Images
Peter Crouch reflected these concerns and suggested that new fullbacks and goalkeepers should be priorities.
“Obviously, goalkeeping situation last year was sometimes biased,” the former Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur striker said.
“We’ve always said Amorim and the way he wants to play, and getting a fullback is very important.
“But they signed players who are really good players, but are they dealing with the issues of Man United (having)? Honestly, they had a lot of issues last season and finished towards the bottom end of the league.
“So we need to deal with them. Did they deal with them? I’m not that sure.”
United will begin their Premier League campaign next Sunday, hosting Arsenal, but will face Manchester City and Chelsea on the first five supplies.
“They’re off to a tough start,” Hargreaves said. “So we’ll know immediately what will happen with this group.”
