Arne Slot reveals the one Manchester United star who stunned him with an incredible display yesterday
In a heartfelt post-match reaction that stunned fans and pundits alike, Liverpool manager Arne Slot openly admitted he was left in awe by one Manchester United player following his side’s 2-1 defeat at Anfield. Despite Liverpool dominating large parts of the game, Slot confessed that Matheus Cunha’s breathtaking display completely caught him off guard.
Speaking with a tone of admiration, Slot didn’t hide his surprise. “My players fought with everything they had, but this particular Manchester United player delivered one of the most remarkable performances I’ve ever witnessed. I genuinely didn’t expect that level of brilliance — especially here at Anfield, where most players struggle,” he said. He went on to add, “Cunha made things extremely difficult for us. His composure, movement, and intelligence on the ball were simply top class. That wasn’t luck — that was pure quality.”
The clash between Liverpool and Manchester United once again lived up to its fierce reputation. Goals from Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes handed United a memorable 2-1 victory, while Liverpool’s late push fell short. Yet, the spotlight fell firmly on Cunha, whose energy, creativity, and selflessness turned him into the unexpected hero of the night.
Deployed as a false nine, Cunha constantly disrupted Liverpool’s defensive rhythm, dragging Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté out of position while linking up superbly with Rashford and Fernandes. His pressing forced mistakes, and his ability to read the game created openings that United capitalized on. He completed 91% of his passes, won eight duels, and created two big chances — a display that oozed maturity and tactical awareness.
Slot later revealed how unprepared Liverpool were for Cunha’s impact. “We had plans for Rashford and Fernandes, but Cunha shocked us. His hunger and intensity were incredible. Even when we thought he was out of the game, he found a way back in,” Slot admitted. He even acknowledged that some Liverpool supporters clapped for Cunha after full time — a rare show of respect in one of football’s fiercest rivalries.
Social media buzzed with reactions from both sets of fans. Many Liverpool supporters admitted Cunha earned their respect, praising his energy and attitude, while United fans hailed him as the breakout star of Ruben Amorim’s new project. “Cunha has arrived,” one fan wrote. “You can see why Amorim trusted him — power, flair, and intelligence all in one.”
Ruben Amorim himself was full of praise, calling the Brazilian’s performance his “defining moment” in a United shirt. “He’s worked hard, stayed patient, and now he’s showing exactly why we signed him,” the manager said. “He’s not just a striker — he’s a thinker. His understanding of the game gives us so many options.”
Football experts joined in the chorus of praise. Former United forward Robin van Persie described Cunha’s outing as a “complete centre-forward performance,” while Jamie Carragher admitted the forward was “the unexpected difference-maker” who caused Liverpool endless problems.
On a night filled with drama and emotion, Cunha not only helped Manchester United secure a vital victory but also earned something far rarer — respect from the Anfield crowd. Arne Slot summed it up best: “Sometimes, you just have to recognize greatness when you see it. Tonight, that came from a Manchester United player. He deserved every bit of applause he got.”
It was more than just a great performance — it was a statement. Matheus Cunha showed courage, intelligence, and class under pressure, turning a heated rivalry into a night of footballing respect and admiration. Even in defeat, Liverpool’s manager couldn’t help but acknowledge that brilliance.
