Manchester United forward Matheus Cunha has dismissed the viral haircut challenge by fan Frank Ilett, known as The United Strand, insisting it distracts from the team’s real priorities.
The supporter has not cut his hair since October 2024, vowing to keep his growing locks until the club secures five consecutive wins in all competitions. The stunt, now approaching 500 days, has raised funds for a children’s cancer charity and drawn widespread attention.
United built momentum with four straight victories—including Cunha’s goals against Arsenal and Fulham, plus an assist in the win over Manchester City—putting Ilett close to ending his pledge. However, a 1-1 draw at West Ham halted the run, resetting the challenge.
In comments to RomarioTV, Cunha expressed clear frustration: “People are more worried about getting five wins because of the haircut than about the 15 points. So, I’m more for the 15 points, I don’t care about his haircut at all.”
He continued: “We talk about it sometimes, but it’s not very motivating for us. We don’t see it as cool. No-one wants those five wins more than we do, or more wins, whatever. But I think having this pressure from his haircut hides a bit of the beauty that could be in the season, you know?”
Cunha’s remarks echo earlier criticism from Wayne Rooney, who felt the focus should remain on the players. The Manchester United women’s team recently joined in the banter with a celebratory hair-cutting moment after their own winning streak.
Interim manager Michael Carrick acknowledged disappointment in the West Ham result but praised the squad’s spirit and unbeaten run overall, as the team prepares for upcoming fixtures.