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'Foundational piece'- Manchester United called out for £62.5m summer decision

Originally posted on We All Follow United
By Rohit Sarkar | Last updated Sep 19, 2025 8:30 PM ET

Joleon Lescott believes Manchester United did not need to sign Matheus Cunha

Manchester United strengthened the attack significantly in the summer transfer window ahead of the start of the ongoing season. They signed Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers for a £62.5 million deal by activating his release clause. The Brazilian has signed a five-year contract with an option to extend it by a year.

Meanwhile, United signed Bryan Mbeumo for an initial fee of £65 million from Brentford, and it could rise to £71 millionwith potential add-ons. The Cameroon international also signed a five-year contract at Old Trafford with the option of extending it for an additional year. Jason Wilcox prioritised these signings for better results, but United have won just one out of the four matches that they have played so far in the Premier League.

Mbeumo a better fit

Meanwhile, former English centre-back Joleon Lescott feels that Manchester United did not need to sign Cunha. He revealed that Mbeumo will have a more impactful season than the Brazilian for United. The 43-year-old stated that the Cameroon international provides the necessary qualities that United need right now. The former Brentford attacker will fit better into the team’s long-term plan and overall structure than Cunha.

Here is what Lescott said on All Out Football (h/t Youtube):

“I reckon Mbeumo has a more impactful season than Cunha. They don’t need a player like Cunha. Mbeumo is more of a foundational piece to their puzzle than Cunha.”

Matheus Cunha vs Bryan Mbeumo

Mbeumo has definitely settled quicker in the United jersey than Cunha, but it is still early to judge them. The Cameroon international has made a better start to the season than Cunha. He became United’s best player of the month in August. Mbeumo played really well in his debut against Arsenal and also contributed to the win against Burnley with a goal.

The Cameroon international was also the best performer for United in the 3-0 loss against Manchester City. Mbeumo drives into space and contributes significantly to the attack. Hence, he has already become an integral part of Ruben Amorim’s system.

On the other hand, an early hamstring injury has hindered the progress of the Brazilian in the United jersey. It is still too early to definitively judge Cunha, particularly considering his prior Premier League experience and successful goal contributions at Wolves. However, he needs to pull up his socks when he gets back to the pitch, as United are struggling with poor results.

Ultimately, both players are still adjusting to a new club and system. Mbeumo has demonstrated excellent form and appears to be a good fit, while Cunha has shown potential but requires more time and consistent game time to truly display his capabilities.

This article first appeared on We All Follow United and was syndicated with permission.

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