Moroccan international Noussair Mazraoui appears to have struck up an unexpected friendship with Manchester United’s new star signing, Matheus Cunha — a relationship that has already started to blossom in the early days of pre-season.
The Red Devils began their preparations for the 2025–26 campaign this week, aiming to rebuild following a turbulent season that saw them finish 15th in the Premier League and miss out on European competition.
Among those present on the opening day of training on Monday were right-back Mazraoui, who arrived at Old Trafford from Bayern Munich last season, and Cunha, the Brazilian forward signed recently from Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Last season, the pair had faced off in the Premier League — and on both occasions, Mazraoui’s Manchester United side came out on top, securing 2–0 and 1–0 victories. Despite those intense battles, the dynamic between them has shifted dramatically now that they wear the same colours.
“In the dressing room now, we just laugh…” Cunha told the club’s media channel during a light-hearted interview reflecting on his early impressions of life at Manchester United.
The striker, who has represented Brazil at international level, shared how quickly he has connected with Mazraoui since joining the team.
“Yes, as opponents it was different,” Cunha explained with a smile. “Now, in the dressing room, we joke when we think about some of the games — especially with Mazraoui. I was often up against him (laughs).”
Their mutual respect, forged through direct on-field clashes, has seemingly laid the foundation for a positive relationship off the pitch.
While time will tell whether this budding camaraderie develops into a genuine partnership, the early signs suggest a strong connection between the Moroccan defender — who has earned 33 caps and scored two goals for his country — and the Brazilian attacker.
United’s pre-season will give both players a chance to translate that chemistry into performances on the pitch. The club has scheduled five friendly fixtures as part of its summer preparations.
They begin with a match against Leeds United in Stockholm before embarking on a U.S. tour that includes games against West Ham, Bournemouth, and Everton. The schedule concludes with a home fixture against Fiorentina at Old Trafford on 9 August.
For Manchester United fans, the emerging bond between Mazraoui and Cunha offers a glimpse of renewed energy and unity within the squad.
After a dismal campaign that left supporters disillusioned, such light moments could be a small but significant sign of a more cohesive and optimistic team heading into the new season.
Mazraoui, who endured a challenging debut season but remains highly regarded for his technical quality and tactical intelligence, will be hoping to cement his place under the current management. Meanwhile, Cunha arrives with high expectations and a determination to make an immediate impact.
Whether their friendship translates into attacking flair and defensive stability remains to be seen. But for now, in the Manchester United dressing room, laughter — and perhaps the beginnings of a new bromance — is proving to be a welcome change of pace.
