Matheus Cunha Sparks Debate After Taking Manchester United’s Iconic No. 10 Shirt from Rashford
The No. 10 jersey at Manchester United has always carried significant weight, associated with some of the club’s greatest names and the expectations that come with such a legacy. So when Matheus Cunha was officially unveiled as the new wearer of the iconic shirt—taking over from Marcus Rashford—it naturally drew widespread attention from fans and media alike.
The reaction was immediate and intense, but not for the reasons many expected. Just days into his United journey, Cunha found himself at the center of debate—not because of his actions on the pitch, but because of comments circulating online that appeared to criticize Rashford. Phrases like, “I respect Rashford, but the shirt needs someone who shows up every week,” and “He had the hype, I have the standards,” sparked massive reactions across social media platforms.
However, these dramatic quotes have no verifiable source. There’s no official interview or statement where Cunha is recorded making such remarks. In fact, credible reports suggest the opposite: Cunha has shown nothing but respect toward Rashford and the prestigious number he now wears. During his introductory interviews, he mentioned Rashford, swapped shirts with him, and even acknowledged the shirt’s legacy—referencing greats like Wayne Rooney and Zlatan Ibrahimović.
What is true is that Rashford is set to leave United, with the club granting him and several other players time away to explore new opportunities. The transition of the No. 10 shirt to Cunha is more symbolic than contentious. It reflects a new era under manager Rúben Amorim, who appears determined to reshape the team’s identity with fresh leadership and mentality.
Inside the club, Cunha’s early presence has reportedly caused a stir—some senior players are said to be uneasy with how quickly he’s been thrust into the spotlight, while others quietly welcome his boldness as a sign of renewed ambition. Fans, too, are split. Some view his appointment and the surrounding drama as disrespectful to Rashford, while others argue that United needs a more competitive edge and a no-nonsense approach to reclaim its former glory.
Whether Cunha lives up to the pressure and prestige of the No. 10 remains to be seen. But one thing is certain—he’s made an entrance that has already sparked conversation, even if not all of it is based in fact.
