“I would have scored if not for him, he caused a lot of issues for us. I think the club should consider signing him as it’ll help our team a lot” – This is according to Mathues Cunha as he praised one of the players of West Ham after his performance in the match against them
“I Would Have Scored If Not for Him” – Matheus Cunha Urges Club to Consider Signing West Ham Defender After Stellar Performance
In the aftermath of a fiercely contested Premier League clash between Wolverhampton Wanderers and West Ham United, Wolves striker Matheus Cunha has drawn attention not only for his honesty but for his heartfelt praise of an opposition player who, in his view, made a critical difference in the match.
Speaking candidly in a post-match interview, Cunha reflected on missed chances and the challenge posed by West Ham’s resilient back line. While his own team fought valiantly, it was one individual — a West Ham defender, unnamed at first — who stood out to him as the primary obstacle between Wolves and victory.
“I would have scored if not for him. He caused a lot of issues for us throughout the game,” Cunha admitted.
“I honestly think the club should consider signing him — having a player like that on our side would help the team a lot.”
Though Cunha stopped short of naming the player directly, sources close to the club and fan speculation have strongly suggested that he was referring to Nayef Aguerd, West Ham’s Moroccan centre-back who delivered an outstanding defensive performance during the match.
🛡️ Nayef Aguerd: The Rock at the Heart of West Ham’s Defence
If indeed Cunha’s praise was aimed at Aguerd, the words are well-deserved. The 28-year-old defender was immense throughout the 90 minutes, keeping Cunha and Wolves’ attacking threats largely at bay with a mixture of precise positioning, aerial dominance, and strong one-on-one defending.
Here’s a quick look at Aguerd’s stats from the match:
- 🧱 5 clearances, 3 blocks, and 4 interceptions
- 🥊 Won 7 out of 9 duels
- 🧠 Completed 90% of his passes, showing composure in build-up play
- ❌ Made a vital sliding tackle in the 74th minute to deny Cunha a near-certain goal
It was this last intervention, in particular, that Cunha referenced during his comments. A well-timed challenge that not only preserved West Ham’s clean sheet but possibly changed the outcome of the match.
“That tackle was something else,” Cunha later added. “I was already thinking about the celebration, but he read it perfectly. That’s the kind of player who makes a real difference.”
🤝 An Unexpected Transfer Suggestion?
While it’s uncommon for players to publicly suggest potential signings, Cunha’s remark adds an interesting twist to the narrative surrounding Wolves’ upcoming transfer plans. His suggestion that the club should consider signing Aguerd may have been casual in tone, but it certainly hasn’t gone unnoticed.
Wolves, under manager Gary O’Neil, are believed to be exploring reinforcements at the back, particularly after several shaky defensive displays in recent weeks. While Aguerd remains a key part of David Moyes’ (or Julen Lopetegui’s if the managerial change has taken place) setup at West Ham, Wolves could now explore the feasibility of such a move — even if only as a signal of ambition.
“To hear Cunha suggest that, it tells you how much respect the players have for Aguerd. That was a Premier League masterclass in defending,” said one pundit on BBC Sport.
🔁 From Rival to Teammate?
Though a transfer from one Premier League club to another can be complex, it is not impossible. With Wolves likely to offload several players this summer to streamline their wage structure and refresh the squad, a signing like Aguerd — if made available — could fit into a renewed defensive vision.
However, West Ham may be reluctant to sell, especially considering Aguerd’s growing role at the club and the interest he has received from European clubs in the past. After his standout performances for Morocco at the World Cup, his value has only risen.
If nothing else, Cunha’s words have sparked an interesting conversation: should Wolves — or any club seeking defensive solidity — target one of the league’s more underrated defensive stalwarts?
⚽ Cunha’s Self-Critique: A Reflection of Growth
Beyond the praise for Aguerd, Cunha’s words also reflect his own character and hunger to improve.
“I take responsibility too. As a striker, I want to score those chances, but credit where it’s due — that man was everywhere.”
This kind of self-awareness, paired with a willingness to recognize and uplift a rival, shows maturity and leadership qualities from the Brazilian forward. It also speaks to the competitive spirit in the Premier League — where world-class talent can turn a sure goal into a stunning defensive stop in seconds.
🔚 Final Thoughts: Respect Earned, Spotlight Deserved
In football, it’s often the goalscorers and creators who receive the praise — but occasionally, a defender puts in a performance so commanding that even his opponents can’t help but applaud.
Matheus Cunha’s heartfelt recognition of West Ham’s defensive hero is one such moment — a gesture of respect across enemy lines, and a quiet reminder that the best performances don’t always come with goals or assists.
Whether or not a transfer ever materializes, Cunha’s words have elevated the profile of a player who deserves far more credit than he gets — and might have just planted the seed for an intriguing transfer saga in the future.
