Manchester United have officially confirmed that new signing Matheus Cunha will wear the iconic No. 10 shirt for the upcoming season, taking over from Marcus Rashford, who has expressed a desire to leave the club.
Cunha, who joined United in June from Wolverhampton Wanderers in a £62.5 million deal, specifically requested the No. 10 shirt during negotiations. The Brazilian forward, known for his dynamic style and versatility, reportedly sees himself as a central figure in United’s rebuild and wants to embrace the responsibility that comes with wearing one of the club’s most storied numbers.
Despite the request, Cunha showed respect for Rashford’s legacy at the club, understanding that the shirt still belonged to the England international when he signed. However, United informed Rashford of their intention to reassign the number in advance—a decision that the 26-year-old accepted as he explores a move away from Old Trafford.
Sources close to the situation suggest that Rashford’s preference is a switch to La Liga giants Barcelona.
Meanwhile Rashford is among five senior players who have now formally requested transfers away from the club this summer. Jadon Sancho, Antony, Tyrell Malacia, and Alejandro Garnacho have also communicated their desire to pursue new opportunities elsewhere.
In response, Manchester United have allowed the quintet to delay their returns to pre-season training until later in July, granting them time to negotiate moves. However, the club maintains that all five players will be welcomed back to Carrington should transfers fail to materialise.
The Red Devils have also made their medical and rehabilitation facilities available to the group during this period, a gesture aimed at maintaining professionalism and goodwill, even amid uncertain futures.
United’s decision marks a significant shift in the squad’s makeup ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, as manager Ruben Amorim continues to reshape the team in his first full season in charge. Cunha’s arrival and immediate elevation to the No. 10 shirt signals the club’s intent to move forward with a refreshed attacking core and a renewed sense of identity.
The departures, if completed, would represent a major overhaul of the squad, especially in attacking areas, with the club already eyeing replacements in what could become a defining transfer window for Amorim’s tenure.
