Manchester United’s celebrations following their thrilling victory over Arsenal could be short-lived.
Match-winner Matheus Cunha could be facing a retrospective ban from the Football Association for his celebrations.
The Brazilian forward was the hero at the Emirates Stadium, netting a stunning late goal to maintain United’s perfect record under Michael Carrick.
However, his choice of words during the height of the celebrations has landed him in hot water with broadcasters and potentially the FA.
After drilling home the winner to secure three points, Cunha wheeled away toward the corner flag and the hovering television cameras.
In a moment of high-intensity emotion, the forward appeared to shout a clear profanity directly into the lens.
The outburst was picked up clearly by the pitch side microphones, prompting an immediate on-air apology from Sky Sports commentator Peter Drury.
“If you heard some mad language among the celebrations, we apologise,” Drury told viewers globally.
While the passion of a late winner in a high-stakes clash with Arsenal is understood, the FA’s stance on “clear and deliberate” swearing into broadcast equipment is notoriously strict.
The Wayne Rooney Precedent
Manchester United fans will remember a similar incident in 2011 involving club legend Wayne Rooney.
After scoring a hat-trick against West Ham, Rooney swore directly into a camera and was subsequently hit with a two-match ban for “using offensive, insulting or abusive language.”
Under IFAB Laws of the Game, such actions are deemed to bring the game into disrepute.
The FA has the power to take retrospective action based on the video evidence seen by millions worldwide if the officials did not mention it in their report.
Carrick’s Momentum At Risk?
A potential suspension for Cunha would come at a frustrating time for Michael Carrick.
Since returning, Carrick has guided United back into the Champions League places, with the win over Arsenal lifting them to fourth, one point ahead of Chelsea.
United’s disciplinary concerns are compounded by Cunha’s recent history.
The Brazilian already served a four-match ban last season following a red card against Bournemouth.
While at Wolves, meaning any further “serious foul play” or “disrepute” charges could be met with a firm response.Upcoming Fixtures:
Who Could Manchester United Miss Cunha Against?
With United already out of the domestic cup competitions, any ban would be served exclusively in the Premier League.
If the FA acts swiftly, Cunha could be sidelined for:
Tottenham (H); Saturday, February 1st
West Ham (A); Monday, February 10th
United currently sit on 38 points but risk losing their most clinical forward for a crucial clash in the race for Europe.
The FA is expected to review the footage within the next 48 hours before deciding whether to formalise a charge.
The Sky Sports cameras are bank in action on Monday night with Everton vs Leeds in the Premier League
