Nottingham Forest captain Morgan Gibbs-White was full of praise — and surprise — after his team’s clash with Manchester United, admitting that they were completely unprepared for the player who dismantled their defensive setup.
In the buildup to the game, Forest’s entire focus had been on stopping one man: Bryan Mbeumo.
Every tactical meeting, video analysis, and defensive drill centered around limiting United’s dynamic forward. The plan was straightforward — shut down Mbeumo, and you neutralize Manchester United’s biggest threat.
But football has a way of defying expectations, and this match was a perfect example.
The player who caused chaos wasn’t Mbeumo, nor was it Marcus Rashford, Bruno Fernandes, or Amad Diallo.
It was Matheus Cunha — a name barely mentioned in Forest’s pre-match planning, yet the one who ended up stealing the spotlight.
After the game, a visibly awestruck Gibbs-White couldn’t hide his admiration.
“We spent so much time preparing for Mbeumo that we didn’t see this coming,” he admitted. “I haven’t faced anyone that aggressive or relentless in ages. He completely surprised us.”
Cunha’s performance was nothing short of outstanding. Once criticized for inconsistency and a lack of finishing composure, the forward responded with a commanding display that silenced his detractors. From the opening whistle, he played with energy, intent, and fearless determination.
He hounded Forest’s defenders, forced mistakes, and chased every ball as if the game depended on it.
No matter how tightly he was marked or how physically he was challenged, Cunha kept coming back — stronger each time.
His intensity set the tone for United’s entire performance. He wasn’t just part of their attack — he was their attack.
Gibbs-White summed up what many defenders around the league are starting to realize:
“I’ve faced plenty of quality forwards in this league, but today was different. His aggression, movement, and energy were unreal. We couldn’t catch a breath out there.”
For Manchester United supporters, this wasn’t just another impressive outing — it was a glimpse of what the club has been missing: a player who combines flair with fight, and style with substance.
Cunha didn’t just play well; he made a statement. From start to finish, he dictated the game, lifted his teammates, and showed why he could be central to United’s next chapter.
While Bryan Mbeumo has earned plenty of attention recently and Bruno Fernandes continues to lead from the front, there was no doubt who owned the night.
This was Matheus Cunha’s performance — and he embraced it completely.
Through drive, power, and determination, Cunha sent a clear message that echoed beyond the City Ground:
He’s not just another forward in a red shirt — he’s becoming the heartbeat of Manchester United.
