Matheus Cunha posts cryptic fitness update after hamstring scare, hints at return before Manchester derby

Matheus Cunha offered a potentially encouraging sign over his recovery from a hamstring problem on Saturday, posting images on social media that suggest the Manchester United forward is working on his fitness ahead of next weekend's derby with Manchester City.

Cunha had to be withdrawn in the first half of United's 3-2 victory over Burnley before the international break after appearing to sustain a hamstring issue. He was replaced by Joshua Zirkzee and later pulled out of Brazil's squad this week. On Instagram the 26-year-old shared a photo of himself training on an exercise bike with the caption "The time is flying" accompanied by clock and dynamite emojis, and posted a second image showing a wristband reading "Obrigado pela moral" ("thanks for the moral").

Manager Ruben Amorim said after the Burnley game that he was "concerned" about losing Cunha and Mason Mount, who also left the first half with a knock. Amorim declined to give a definitive prognosis, saying the club would assess both players: "We will see. I don't know [how they are], I don't know. We will check them. We need those guys really bad to be really competitive."

Cunha joined United from Wolves in the summer for a reported £62 million and has been part of Amorim's early plans this season. He was seen walking freely when leaving Old Trafford after the final whistle against Burnley, but the decision to withdraw from Brazil duty was a precautionary measure while United and the player's medical team continued monitoring his condition.

The timing of Cunha's potential return is significant: Manchester City visit Old Trafford next weekend in one of the season's earliest high-profile fixtures. Amorim and United must weigh recovery timelines and match fitness in deciding whether Cunha will be available. No official return date has been provided by the club.

Mount, who has started all three of United's Premier League matches this season, did not emerge for the second half against Burnley and was replaced by Kobbie Mainoo. Amorim said Mount had played through an issue, adding to the head coach's selection concerns ahead of the derby. Benjamin Sesko, a summer signing, has had limited opportunities and has been on the bench while Mount and Cunha have featured prominently.

United's coaching and medical staff are expected to complete further assessments in the coming days. For now, Cunha's social-media activity provides the clearest sign yet that the club's leading forward is actively engaged in his recovery, but the club has not confirmed whether he will be fit to face Manchester City.