I don’t know how others might see it but to me He arguably the current best defender in the league,I have faced Him multiple times and I can testify to that, I’m even worried that we’re facing them on first league game of the season”, Man United New signing Matheus Cunha Named ONE Arsenal defender as the best defender He has ever faced in His career
New Manchester United signing Matheus Cunha caused a stir during his unveiling press conference this afternoon after boldly declaring that an Arsenal defender is currently the best in the Premier League — and the toughest opponent he’s ever faced.
Cunha, who recently completed his move to Old Trafford in a deal believed to be worth £50 million, was asked about the most difficult defenders he’s encountered in his career. Without hesitation, the Brazilian forward singled out Arsenal’s defensive powerhouse William Saliba.
> “I don’t know how others might see it, but to me, he’s arguably the best defender in the league right now,” Cunha told reporters. “I’ve faced him multiple times and I can testify to that. He’s quick, strong, intelligent, and so calm under pressure. Honestly, I’m even a little worried that we’re facing them in our first league game of the season.”
Cunha’s praise for Saliba didn’t stop there. The 25-year-old forward went on to explain how every encounter against the Frenchman had left a lasting impression on him — from Saliba’s impeccable positioning to his ability to read the game and dominate one-on-one duels.
> “I’ve played against great defenders in my career, in La Liga and now here in England, but none have made things harder for me than William Saliba. He’s the complete defender.”
United and Arsenal Set for Opening Day Clash
Cunha’s comments have added extra spice to what was already shaping up to be an explosive start to the 2025/26 Premier League season, with Manchester United set to host Arsenal on the opening weekend. The high-profile fixture will see Cunha make his competitive debut for United — and he may once again have to find a way past the very player he just called the league’s best defender.
Saliba, for his part, has quietly established himself as one of the Premier League’s most commanding centre-backs since returning from his loan spells in France. The 23-year-old was a central figure in Arsenal’s title challenges and remains one of Mikel Arteta’s most trusted players.
Fan Reactions Pour In
Cunha’s remarks quickly went viral on social media, with fans of both United and Arsenal reacting to the rare public praise.
One Arsenal supporter wrote: “Even the enemy admits it. Saliba is a monster. Best in the league and it’s not even close.”
Meanwhile, United fans expressed mixed feelings — some admiring Cunha’s honesty, while others urged him to back himself against the Arsenal star on opening day.
A Rivalry to Watch
With both clubs expected to challenge for honours this season, and with Cunha and Saliba set to clash in just a few weeks, this personal battle is now one to watch when the new campaign kicks off.