7 recoveries, 100% aerial duels: Fernandes impressed but one Man Utd star was sensational vs Bournemouth
Manchester United shared spoils with Bournemouth in a dramatic 2-2 Premier League contest on Friday evening.
After a pulsating 4-4 draw at Old Trafford in December, the Vitality Stadium was treated to a spectacle in the second half.
While Bruno Fernandes delivered another solid display, it was Matheus Cunha who stole the spotlight with a standout performance.
There were genuine concerns about whether Cunha could thrive in a back-four system, given his preference for operating in central areas.
However, with Fernandes firmly cemented in the number 10 role, opportunities in his natural position remain limited.
Although he possesses the ability to lead the line, Cunha is far from a conventional striker.
United head coach Michael Carrick has used him as a left winger but he is not a traditional touchline-hugging winger who stretches defences with width.
By playing him out wide, the opposition knows that he will cut inside, making the attack very predictable.
The 26-year-old has really stepped up over the last two games and delivered a convincing display on the left wing.
He ripped Bournemouth right-back Alex Jimenez apart last evening by beating him with pace and strength.
The pressure eventually told, as the Spain Under-21 international was forced into a clumsy foul inside the box.
Apart from winning a penalty for the opening goal, the Brazilian touched the ball 54 times and had a shot on target.
He won all three of his aerial duels and made seven ball recoveries.
His night could have lasted longer, but he was sacrificed for defensive reinforcement after Harry Maguire was sent off.
Cunha is a classy player and he is bringing a lot of value to this squad.
Stats from Sofascore.com
Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .