Mats Sels: “I’ve Never Faced a Player Like Him Before”

In an emotional and eye-opening post-match revelation, Nottingham Forest goalkeeper Mats Sels has admitted that one Manchester United player completely shocked him with his performance during yesterday’s Premier League clash.

Speaking to Sky Sports after the final whistle, Sels said:

“This season alone, I have played against top players like Bukayo Saka, Mohamed Salah, Cole Palmer, and even Erling Haaland — but to be honest, I have never seen a player with so many qualities like he has. He really caught me unaware yesterday.”

The Forest shot-stopper, known for his composure and sharp reflexes, confessed that he had not prepared for the level of intelligence, pace, and creativity displayed by Matheus Cunha, the Manchester United forward who completely dominated the game.

Sels was so impressed that, after the final whistle, he personally walked up to the United man to swap jerseys, a gesture that showed immense respect and admiration.

Cunha’s Magical Performance Against Nottingham Forest

It was a night where Matheus Cunha reminded everyone why Manchester United fought so hard to bring him to Old Trafford.

From the first whistle, he looked dangerous — spinning away from defenders, driving the ball with purpose, and linking beautifully with Amad Diallo and Casemiro. His confidence was electric, and every touch seemed to send shockwaves through Nottingham Forest’s backline.

In the 56th minute, he produced a breathtaking solo run that nearly resulted in a goal, forcing Sels into a full-stretch save that drew applause even from the Forest fans. Later, his perfectly weighted through-ball led to United’s crucial equalizer, earning him widespread praise from pundits and supporters alike.

Mats Sels: “He’s Different — You Can Feel It When He Has the Ball”

After the match, Sels continued his praise for Cunha in a post-match interview:

“When he has the ball, you can feel something is going to happen. He’s not predictable like most strikers. He’s strong, fast, and very technical. It’s rare to see all those qualities together in one player.”

Sels also revealed that several Forest defenders discussed Cunha’s impact during halftime, admitting they were struggling to contain him.

“At halftime, the defenders kept saying, ‘This guy is something else.’ You can’t rest for one second when he’s on the pitch. He never stops moving.”

Cunha Winning Hearts at Old Trafford

Since joining Manchester United, Cunha has been gradually earning the trust of the fans and his new manager, Ruben Amorim.

While much of the spotlight this season has been on players like Amad Diallo and Benjamin Šeško, Cunha’s quiet consistency has been the real difference-maker in several key matches.

Amorim, who has been vocal about demanding intensity from his players, praised Cunha’s performance after the Forest clash, saying:

“Matheus is a fighter. He’s improving every week. He gives everything for this badge, and performances like that make me proud as a coach.”

Fans Erupt With Praise: “Cunha Is Underrated!”

Across social media, Manchester United fans flooded timelines with messages of appreciation for Cunha’s display.

• “Cunha doesn’t get enough credit. He’s been our silent hero in so many games this season.”
• “Not surprised Mats Sels said that — Cunha has been unplayable recently!”
• “This is what we’ve been missing: a forward who scares defenders and keeps the energy high for 90 minutes.”

Even rival fans couldn’t ignore his quality, with some admitting he looks like one of the most complete attackers in the league right now.

Pundits React: “Cunha Is Coming Into His Own”

Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher was full of praise after the game:

“What we’re seeing from Cunha now is a player who’s adapting to the Premier League’s tempo and physicality. He’s growing into this Manchester United team, and his understanding with Amad and Casemiro is really starting to click.”

Meanwhile, former United legend Rio Ferdinand added:

“When opposition players like Sels talk about you with that kind of respect, it means you’ve arrived. Cunha is becoming one of those players who makes things happen every time he touches the ball.”

A Respectful Gesture That Speaks Volumes

After the final whistle, Mats Sels was seen walking straight toward Cunha to shake hands before exchanging jerseys — a symbolic gesture that perfectly captured the night’s spirit.

The moment quickly went viral, with fans applauding both players for their sportsmanship and mutual respect. One fan commented:

“That’s football at its finest. A rival goalkeeper showing respect to a player who made his night difficult. Pure class.”

What This Means for Manchester United

Cunha’s rise could not have come at a better time. With key fixtures ahead and mounting pressure on Ruben Amorim to keep United in the title race, performances like this give the team much-needed belief.

The Brazilian’s chemistry with United’s attacking players continues to grow — and if he maintains this form, he could soon become one of the most talked-about players in the Premier League.

Final Thoughts

When even your opponents can’t help but admire your brilliance, you know you’ve done something special.

Mats Sels’ honest confession has not only earned Cunha praise but also reignited hope among Manchester United fans that this team can reach its full potential under Ruben Amorim.

As one fan perfectly put it online:

“If players like Mats Sels are saying that about our boy Cunha, then we’ve finally found the spark we’ve been missing for years.”