United Beyond Manchester

Early preseason is less about results and more about building fitness. Still, each match offers clues, subtle or significant, that help managers and fans alike get a glimpse of what’s to come in the weeks and season ahead.

Matheus Cunha is a Gamechanger

Manchester United has needed a player like Cunha for a while now. Cunha’s direct style of play will help United break through lines quickly, which he showcased multiple times in his half of play. All too often in previous seasons, United have allowed opposing sides to fall back and defend comfortably. Cunha makes defenses uncomfortable.

Another aspect of the Brazilian’s game that was on full display was his vision. While on the ball, Cunha sees the space well, finding areas to dribble or switch play. When receiving the ball, United’s new No. 10 knows where his teammates are, and showcased that against Leeds with several quick flicks and touches that opened up the defense.

Diego Leon Will be a Project

Ahead of moving to Manchester, Leon was confident he would be a first-team player this season, saying, “Everyone thinks I’ll go out on loan, but I don’t have that mindset. I’m going to crush it in the preseason, and within one or two games, I’ll already be playing with them.” While the confidence is admirable and will serve him well in the long run, it’s clear that it will take Leon time to adapt to the English game.

Several times in the first half of the match, Leon was caught too high or failed to track runners, allowing Leeds to get in behind. He showed decent ability defending one-on-one, but his awareness off the ball needs work.

Time with United’s U21s will serve the young Paraguayan well to start the season.

Tom Heaton for No. 1?

This is not a serious question. Or is it? Heaton played well in the second half after coming on, saving three shots from inside the box, including a crucial stop on Largie Ramazani in the 64th minute.

While it’s unlikely that Heaton features in goal for United this season, Amorim will be eager to have the position settled well before the Premier League opener against Arsenal.