A 2-2 Draw Highlights Manchester United’s Striker Issues as €70 Million Cunha Struggles and Could Face Changes Under Carrick

In the third round of the new Premier League season, Manchester United traveled to face Everton. After a hard-fought match, Manchester United drew 2-2 with Everton. Without Sesko’s impressive late performance and his crucial equalizing goal, Manchester United might have suffered a defeat in this match.

Throughout the match, Manchester United’s overall performance was relatively stable, with the team controlling the initiative for most periods and holding a 1-0 lead for a long time. However, they were eventually held to a draw by their opponents and missed out on three points. Behind this 2-2 draw, one Manchester United player’s performance fell short of expectations and attracted outside discussion. That player was highly anticipated expensive striker Cunha.

Looking at the entire match, Manchester United’s overall running, defensive positioning, and tactical execution were at a normal level, with no obvious weaknesses in their overall performance. However, starting striker Cunha’s form was disappointing, and his display did not meet expectations, affecting the team’s attacking and defensive structure to some extent.

Cunha started as the central striker in this match and showed few highlights during his 70 minutes on the pitch. The statistics clearly reflected his struggles. According to the data, he had only 42 touches and made 11 possession losses throughout the game, showing a lack of stability when controlling the ball. His repeated mistakes disrupted United’s attacking rhythm and passing structure, forcing several promising attacking moves to break down.

In attack, Cunha also failed to fully perform the role expected of a striker. He managed only two shots in the match, both of which missed the target, and did not provide an effective scoring threat. He also struggled in aerial duels, failing to consistently provide hold-up play, back-to-goal support, or defensive disruption, resulting in limited influence inside the penalty area.

Since the start of the new season, Cunha, whose market value is as high as €70 million, has been unable to find his best form. After three rounds, he remains without a goal, and his performances have not matched outside expectations. Similar to Martial in the past, he has faced criticism over limited impact in major matches, inconsistent form, and low involvement, creating a gap between his high salary and on-field contribution.

In contrast, substitute Sesko delivered a clear difference after coming on. He actively contributed in both attack and defense, made more flexible runs, and showed strong finishing ability. In the 88th minute, he scored the equalizer, proving his ability with limited playing time. The contrast between the two players’ performances further highlighted questions over whether Cunha’s current form suits a starting role.

At this stage, Cunha’s physical form, match mentality, and tactical fit still have room for improvement. For Manchester United manager Carrick, adjusting starting selections and making better use of players in stronger form will be an important consideration moving forward. Otherwise, the team’s prospects this season could face further challenges.