Manchester United forward Matheus Cunha could face disciplinary action from the Football Association after a foul-mouthed outburst during his goal celebration against Arsenal. The Brazilian scored a stunning late winner to secure a 3-2 victory at the Emirates Stadium, but his celebration, which involved swearing directly into a camera, has landed him in hot water.
Sky Sports commentator Peter Drury issued an apology during the broadcast, saying: "If you heard some mad language among the celebrations we apologise." The incident has drawn comparisons to a 2011 case involving Wayne Rooney, who received a two-match ban for a similar offence.
The IFAB Laws of the Game prohibit players from using offensive, insulting or abusive language. While referees can issue a red card if they hear such language, the FA can take retrospective action if the incident is caught on camera and broadcast to a wide audience. The FA views swearing directly into a camera as 'clear and deliberate' and detrimental to the game's reputation.
This is not Cunha's first brush with the FA. During his time at Wolves last season, he received a four-match ban and a £50,000 fine for violent conduct against Bournemouth's Milos Kerkez. He also served a two-match suspension earlier that season for clashing with Ipswich Town staff.
If banned, Cunha's suspension would be served in the Premier League, as United have been eliminated from the FA Cup and Carabao Cup. United's next match is against Tottenham at Old Trafford on Saturday, 12:30pm kick-off.
