Manager Ruben Amorim fielded two different XI's in each half as the his squad players build up match fitness for the American tour in a few weeks time where they will face the likes of West Ham United, Bournemouth and Everton.
Cunha, who arrived from Wolves for £62.5M last month, was included in the starting XI and failed to make a big impact as United were dominated by a Leeds side desperate to show that they are once again worthy of the Premier League.
Addressing his first appearance for the club, the Brazilian international expressed how happy he was to pull on the shirt and how ready his is to lead the club to success.
"Blessed! What a feeling to wear this shirt and have my first minutes with the boys, hungry for more. Thank you."
Cunha had 26 touches of the ball, completed 92 per cent of his passes, made one tackle and one interception and won two fouls throughout the game against Leeds in a debut that fans will take a lot from heading into the new campaign.
What is obvious however is that Amorim must fully implement his tactical style before the season begins as United often look to be without shape which does not help new signings like Cunha to learn and adapt to the system he is trying to get used to.