Ruben Amorim receives a strong warning from Matheus Cunha as the Manchester United player admits something “painful.”

Matheus Cunha has expressed his gratitude to head coach Ruben Amorim for playing him as a crucial part of a Manchester United team that is now competing well in the Premier League.

Arsenal are the only side that currently have a longer unbeaten streak than the five matches United have gone without defeat. It will be approaching two months since they lost away at Brentford when Everton head to Old Trafford after this November international break.

Cunha has featured in all of those matches, starting the last four after coming on as a substitute in the first. The summer signing believes that showing his worth for United is helping to keep a spot in the Brazil squad.

“Manchester United is a club that should always be at the top,” Cunha told reporters at a press conference on Tuesday. “I’m grateful to be playing in a side that’s delivering and competing well. To earn a spot in the national team, you have to consistently show your worth at club level.”

Carlo Ancelotti has called up Cunha on each occasion since taking charge of the Brazilian national side. Even after withdrawing in September due to injury, the forward returned to the fold and remains part of their plans. That has not always been the case under previous coaches, notably missing out on the last World Cup.

“Every moment in life is an opportunity to grow,” Cunha said when reflecting on that disappointment. “Not being selected for Qatar was painful, but it taught me to deal with set-backs differently.

“I’ve matured. The frustration then has driven me to where I am now.”

Cunha has also spoken highly of Ancelotti. “Knowing that the manager trusts me to play in multiple positions is so important,” he said.

“It gives me the responsibility to be decisive and to always work hard, no matter where he places me. You need to deliver and prove that you’re ready.”

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