Cunha's debut and nothing more

Manchester United were held to a scoreless draw by newly promoted Leeds in Stockholm, as Matheus Cunha made his first start for the club in a preseason outing that left plenty to be desired.

Preparations for the match were far from ideal, particularly for Ruben Amorim’s side, who faced unexpected delays due to heavy traffic near the stadium — not the smoothest start to the evening.

Cunha's debut offered glimpses but little end product. His clearest opportunity came just before halftime when an Amad Diallo cross found its way toward him, only for teenager Chido Obi to nip in and attempt a finish of his own. Obi's effort rolled wide, and Cunha didn't hide his frustration, visibly gesturing at his young teammate.

Manager Amorim was hoping for commitment and a clearer understanding of the team's tactical demands in their first preseason run-out. What he probably didn’t expect was that United’s best player would be 38-year-old Tom Heaton.

Brought on with ten other changes at the break, the veteran goalkeeper produced two excellent stops within ten minutes — first denying Jayden Bogle from close range, and later reacting sharply to keep out a fierce drive from Largie Ramazani.

There was also a first appearance for young South American full-back Diego Leon, who showed some understandable nerves in his European debut and looked a bit off the pace.

United came closest to stealing a win in the dying moments. Casemiro had already struck the bar in the first half with a deflected cross, and in the 88th minute, Kobbie Mainoo hit the woodwork again after a chaotic scramble in the box. Ayden Heaven saw his follow-up blocked, and Mainoo’s acrobatic second attempt was kept out by Illian Meslier.

Adding a touch of Hollywood to the occasion, actor and Leeds co-owner Will Ferrell was among those watching from the stands — though even he might've struggled to find drama in this one.