Manchester United forward Matheus Cunha has raised hopes he could recover in time for next weekend’s derby against Manchester City after sharing a new injury update on social media.
The £62.5m summer signing limped off with a hamstring problem during United’s dramatic 3-2 win over Burnley last week. He later withdrew from Brazil’s World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Bolivia, with manager Ruben Amorim admitting he was “concerned” by the severity of the issue.
However, United insiders have since suggested the injury may not be as serious as first feared, and Cunha’s latest Instagram post — showing him training on an exercise bike with the caption “The time is flying” — has only added to speculation he could return sooner than expected.
Cunha’s Instagram Message
“The time is flying.” — Matheus Cunha, via Instagram
The cryptic post has been interpreted by United fans as a sign the striker is edging closer to full fitness, raising hopes he could be fit to face Pep Guardiola’s side at the Etihad.
United’s Growing Injury List
Cunha’s scare comes alongside several other problems for Amorim. Mason Mount was forced off against Burnley with a separate knock, while Diogo Dalot has pulled out of Portugal duty with a muscle issue. Long-term absentee Lisandro Martínez also remains sidelined.
It leaves United light in key areas, with Chelsea and Liverpool clashes also looming in a crucial month for Amorim’s side.
Cunha’s Stats Snapshot
| Stat (2024/25, Wolves) | Matheus Cunha |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 36 |
| Goals | 17 |
| Assists | 6 |
| Minutes Played | — |
source: sofascore – 6 September 2025
Those numbers convinced United to pay Wolves £62.5m this summer, but losing him now would leave Amorim short of attacking firepower in a season where United have already been dumped out of the Carabao Cup by Grimsby.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William:
United’s attack has lacked consistency this season, and Cunha is central to Amorim’s plans. His movement, pressing, and link-up play give United a dimension they’ve missed since Martial’s decline.
If he is fit for the derby, it changes the outlook. United pulled off a dramatic win at the Etihad last season, and Cunha’s availability could tilt the balance again. Without him, Amorim faces a huge tactical headache.
Key Insights
- Matheus Cunha injured his hamstring vs Burnley.
- He withdrew from Brazil’s WC qualifiers.
- Instagram post “The time is flying” sparks optimism.
- United also missing Mason Mount, Dalot, Martínez.
- Derby vs Man City at the Etihad next weekend looms.
What’s Next
United will monitor Cunha daily ahead of the derby. A late fitness test is expected, though Amorim won’t want to risk aggravating the injury with Chelsea and Liverpool also on the horizon.
For City, Guardiola is preparing as if the Brazilian will play — knowing United’s counter-attacking threat is built on his pace and pressing. The derby could hinge on whether Cunha makes it.
Will Cunha be fit for the Manchester derby — or are United heading to the Etihad short of their record signing?
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