Man United Boss Ruben Amorim in Panic Mode as Star Target Matheus Cunha Suffers Injury Blow

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim expressed concern that a prolonged injury layoff for Matheus Cunha could severely impact his team following the Brazilian's withdrawal during Saturday's clash with Burnley.

Amorim's optimism for a quick return took a hit when Brazil opted to exclude Cunha from Carlo Ancelotti's roster for September's World Cup qualifying matches. The national team's official X platform announced that the versatile attacker had picked up a "muscle injury" during the weekend fixture.

Cunha managed just over half an hour before collapsing on the pitch and requesting medical attention at Old Trafford on Saturday. United held a 1-0 advantage when Amorim had to withdraw the club's new number 10, ultimately securing victory through Bruno Fernandes' injury-time spot kick.

This triumph could be vital for Amorim's short-term prospects as United's manager following a disappointing midweek penalty defeat to League Two side Grimsby Town that sparked speculation about potential coaching changes. Cunha featured for the full match at Blundell Park, which might have contributed to his fitness issues three days afterward.

"Regarding Cunha's situation, it's unclear whether playing the complete match midweek contributed to today's injury," Amorim pondered. The United manager, nevertheless, emphasized his creative player's value to the squad. "That player is absolutely essential for our competitiveness," he stressed.

Mason Mount was similarly withdrawn at the interval due to an unspecified problem he had developed as early as the 15th minute of Saturday's encounter. "Given Mason Mount's issue, I wasn't willing to gamble with another player's fitness, uncertain about their ability to handle extended playing time," Amorim clarified. "Everything was interconnected."

Both Cunha and Mount have an international break to recuperate before Premier League action returns next month. United face a challenging restart, traveling to cross-town rivals Manchester City on Sep. 14, followed by Chelsea's visit six days later. It's understandable why Amorim desperately needs his two key talents fit and ready as quickly as possible.