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Manchester United star Matheus Cunha has hit back strongly at suggestions that he has a fiery temper that could disadvantage the team.
Cunha enjoying superb start to life at United
Cunha joined United earlier in the summer from Wolverhampton Wanderers in a deal worth £62.5m. There was plenty of interest in him but he made it very clear that he was only keen on a move to Old Trafford.
He travelled with the team to the United States for pre-season and showed very encouraging flashes of his brilliance. However, it was during last weekend’s 1-0 defeat to Arsenal that he really came to life.
The Brazilian was undoubtedly the best player on the pitch, catching the eye with his outstanding dribbling, skills and strength. He also came close to finding the back of the net on a few occasions.
As United look to get their first win of the campaign when they face Fulham at Craven Cottage on Sunday, Cunha spoke to Sky Sports and reflected on his start to life at United. The discussion also touched on his temperament, which cost him several appearances for Wolves last season due to suspension.”
Cunha responds to his critics
He told Sky Sports, “Honestly, I don’t really care about it. I think every single thing I did in the game is out of love for the game. I’m very passionate to win games, to make my team and myself better to achieve things. I think inside of me I always believe in something more.”
“And when I bring this to United now, it’s something that pushes me forward. Of course we can make mistakes, and I made some mistakes. I am sorry, I apologise for that. But it’s always with a good intention. I always try to do something good, and maybe pass a little bit (he means ‘to go overboard’). I never put myself in [positions to make people] question my character, because inside I know who I am.”
Asked whether he likes to play on the edge, he answered, “Yes, honestly. Everyone talks about the pressure in this club, but I’ve always wanted to be here. Of course, I understand it’s one of the biggest clubs in the world. The pressure is big, but I always try to feel the pressure like a privilege.”
“I always dreamed to come here, and then when I’m here, I can’t have this excuse of the pressure being too much, you know. It’s a privilege.”
The 26-year-old emphasised that Ruben Amorim’s use of him in a favoured number 10 role was a key factor in his decision to join United.
“It’s something that Ruben, when he brought me here, chatted a lot about. I think my perfect position to play is around the middle, a little bit between the midfield and the striker.”
“So, a No 10, I think this is the position that is easier to understand, behind the forward, where you can create much more space. This is the position they brought me here for, it is somewhere I feel comfortable, and I hope I can bring some creativity to the team.”
“Ruben is someone that helped me a lot to come here, explaining how my position would be, how I can bring him something that he wants. I feel very adapted, very comfortable. He’s someone who always pushes me forward.”
“I love having someone to push me a little bit more. We never fight, but we have, like, some conversations when I say something, and then they says ‘no, it’s this way’ and I understand and go forward!”
“He’s someone who can push the players forward, and I think this is the best quality in a manager. Put players in positions and show everyone their qualities.”
Fulham vs. United kicks off at 16:30 BST.
Featured image Stu Forster via Getty Images
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