Matheus Cunha could face FA ban after explosive celebration in Man United’s win vs Arsenal

Manchester United’s dramatic 3-2 win over Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium could come at a heavy price, with the winner of the match, Matthews Cunha, facing the prospect of retrospective action from the FA.

The Brazilian star, who came on as a substitute to score the decisive goal in the last moments, was the hero of the night for interim coach Michael Carrick.

However, according to the Manchester Evening News, his celebrations could put him in an awkward position, with suggestions that the FA may review footage of an explicit outburst directed directly at the broadcast camera.

What did Matthews Cunha do?

The incident occurred immediately after Cunha restored United’s lead after Mikel Merino scored Arsenal’s equaliser.

At the conclusion of a brilliant spectacle involving Bruno Fernandes and Kobe Maino, Cunha curled a brilliant finish into the bottom corner to send the support frenzied.

Cunha then sprinted towards the corner flag, grabbed a pitchside camera, and shouted directly down the lens. While the audio was not completely clear, the message contained a clear audible sound.

The explosion was large enough to require immediate damage control by broadcasters.

Sky Sports commentator Peter Drury issued an on-air apology moments later, saying: “If you heard some bad language between the celebrations, we apologize for that.”

amazing! Incredible from Matthews Cunha! ? pic.twitter.com/MVRNaPCOcR

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) January 25, 2026

What do the FA rules say?

While officials on the pitch did not punish the striker at the time, Cunha is not immune.

According to the report, the FA’s guidelines regarding “offensive, insulting or offensive language and/or gestures” are strict.

The rules explicitly state that cursing directly in front of a camera can be construed as a “clear and intentional” act of misconduct that brings the game into disrepute.

Because the incident was broadcast to a global audience, the FA has the power to take retrospective disciplinary action.

If the organizing committee deems this act severe enough, the United striker could face a ban, ruling him out of upcoming crucial matches.

Cunha has been quite impressive lately

The goal was a reminder of why Manchester United brought Matheus Cunha to Old Trafford in the first place.

After struggling for consistency, this appearance showed the intensity and clear edge that characterized his best days at Wolves.

Compare Matheus Cunha’s statistics in the English Premier League

It also serves as further evidence of the impact Michael Carrick has had on players.

Since taking over from Ruben Amorim, Michael Carrick has been able to unleash the potential of a previously disjointed attack.

With back-to-back wins over Manchester City and Arsenal, players like Cunha, Durgu and others have finally found their best form, playing with a freedom and confidence that suggests the season is far from over for the Red Devils.