Ibrahima Konate reacts to Matheus Cunha’s message after Man United development
Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konate was among the players to react to Manchester United’s latest decision involving new signing Matheus Cunha.
The Red Devils have made two signings this window but one they were quick to wrap up on was sealing the signing of Cunha.
Man United triggered the Cunha’s £62.5 million release clause last month, fending off strong interest from a number of clubs to complete the deal swiftly.
He impressed during his time at Wolves, scoring 15 Premier League goals last season and playing a vital role in their survival campaign.
Both Arsenal and Nottingham Forest had shown serious interest in Cunha, particularly during the January window, but it’s United who ultimately secured his signature and he becomes one of the first major signings under Ruben Amorim.
Now, as pre-season begins, United’s decision on Cunha’s shirt number has caught some attention.
Man United hand number 10 shirt to Matheus Cunha as Marcus Rashford exit looms
Despite Marcus Rashford still being a Manchester United player, the club have opted to hand his iconic number 10 shirt to new signing Cunha.
United’s official Instagram account confirmed the decision, writing: “Introducing United’s new no.10: [Cunha]”. The post drew plenty of attention, including likes from Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konate and United right-back Diogo Dalot.
While the academy graduate has not yet left the club, Football Insider have reported that Rashford is edging closer to a Man United exit. A deal has not yet been agreed, but his future remains uncertain amid growing speculation.
As for Cunha, the Brazilian will be hoping to impress at Old Trafford after his campaign with Wolves. However, there are concerns over his on-pitch discipline. He received four yellow cards and was sent off in Wolves’ FA Cup defeat to Bournemouth last season.
Former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett even suggested that Man United’s club psychologists may need to work closely with Cunha to manage his fiery temperament and avoid future run-ins with referees.
Man United accelerating Rashford sale amid Barcelona interest
Rashford has been expected to leave for some time, and the latest decision to strip his shirt number may accelerate that. He has now been given extra time off, instead of returning to Carrington in a bid to secure himself a move away.
Football Insider revealed on 6 July that manager Amorim is keen to fast-track Rashford’s departure, with hopes of having the deal finalised before the start of pre-season.
Barcelona, who recently missed out on signing Nico Williams after he committed his future to Athletic Club, could now reignite their interest in Rashford as they seek attacking reinforcements.