Former Aston Villa defender **Steven Warnock** has questioned Manchester United’s transfer strategy, insisting the club cannot afford to field both **Bruno Fernandes** and new signing **Matheus Cunha** in the same squad.
Speaking on BBC, Warnock delivered a blunt assessment:
*“Can a Premier League club afford to have two players who don’t work hard off the ball — like Bruno Fernandes and Matheus Cunha? If not, then why buy Cunha without selling Fernandes? You have to get rid of one of them. In today’s league, you can’t carry passengers, and last season Manchester United really suffered because of that.”*
### A Dilemma in the Midfield
Warnock’s comments cut to the heart of United’s current dilemma: balancing creativity with work rate. While **Fernandes** remains the club captain and a key source of goals and assists, his defensive contribution is often criticized. Cunha, meanwhile, arrived with high expectations, but is also not known for relentless pressing or off-the-ball graft.
### United’s Tactical Challenge
Ruben Amorim’s system is built around intensity, pressing, and discipline — qualities that demand more than just flair. Having both Bruno and Cunha in the same squad raises doubts about whether United can truly compete with high-energy sides like Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool.
### Fan Debate Heats Up
Warnock’s statement has already triggered lively debate among supporters. Some argue that Bruno’s creativity makes him undroppable, while others believe Amorim must be ruthless to restore balance to the team.
### Bottom Line
For Warnock, the equation is simple: United must decide between Fernandes and Cunha — because keeping both risks repeating last season’s struggles with “passengers” in midfield.
**Key Question:** Should Manchester United build around Bruno Fernandes — or cut ties to make room for Matheus Cunha?
