Concerns over Matheus Cunha’s fitness emerged after the Manchester United forward unexpectedly cancelled a scheduled appearance at Altrincham’s Christmas lights switch-on. The Brazilian attacker had been set to attend Saturday evening’s celebration with actor Sam Aston, known for portraying Chesney in Coronation Street.
Just hours before the festivities, Visit Altrincham announced on Facebook that Cunha would no longer take part “for medical reasons” following what they described as an “accident in training.” The change immediately prompted speculation about a possible injury, coming only two days before United’s Premier League meeting with Everton on Monday.
The club has not yet provided any clarification regarding Cunha’s condition or whether he will be ready for the upcoming match. BBC Sport has reached out to United for a statement, and it is believed the community event was not organised through the club itself.
United face potential selection dilemma
Cunha, who arrived from Wolves in the summer for £62.5m, has become an important figure in United’s recent revival under Ruben Amorim, with the team going five matches without defeat. He netted his first goal for the club in October’s 4-2 victory over Brighton and featured for Brazil in both of their recent friendly fixtures.
Amorim is already without forward Benjamin Sesko, who the manager confirmed on Friday will be sidelined until mid-December with a knee issue. If Cunha is also ruled out, it could force significant changes to United’s attacking setup for Monday’s fixture.
Possible replacements under consideration
Mason Mount may be pushed into the starting side, while Kobbie Mainoo and Joshua Zirkzee are also options for their first Premier League starts of the season under Amorim.
Another possibility is a promotion for England Under-20 prospect Shea Lacey, who has delivered strong showings for United’s Premier League 2 team this campaign.
