Manchester United star could face a playing ban following incident in victory over Arsenal

Matheus Cunha faces potential FA suspension due to a disputed celebration during the match against Arsenal, with allegations of inappropriate words caught on camera.

In the early hours of January 26 (Vietnam time), Manchester United traveled to Emirates Stadium aiming to extend their momentum after beating Manchester City. Thanks to goals from Bryan Mbeumo, Patrick Dorgu, and especially Cunha’s spectacular winner, the "Red Devils" secured a thrilling 3-2 victory. Earlier, Lisandro Martinez scored an own goal to give Arsenal the lead, while Mikel Merino netted the second goal for the Emirates side.

After scoring the decisive 3-2 goal, Cunha was captured by cameras shouting loudly towards the lens. According to Manchester Evening News, it is unclear exactly what the Brazilian player said, but the footage suggests the possibility of inappropriate language. Sky Sports commentator Peter Drury also felt compelled to apologize live on air: “If you heard any inappropriate language during the celebration, we sincerely apologize.”

Manchester Evening News also reports that Cunha could face disciplinary action from the FA. FA rules state that using “offensive, insulting or abusive language or gestures” can result in penalties. The regulation includes the clause: “Even if the referee does not always hear players swearing in the heat of the moment, the FA reserves the right to impose additional sanctions if the incident is recorded and widely broadcast. The FA views swearing directly into the camera as a ‘clear and deliberate’ act that damages the image of football.”

A similar precedent occurred in 2011 when Wayne Rooney was suspended for two matches after being caught swearing at the camera during a game against West Ham at Upton Park. At that time, the former Man United captain was charged with using “offensive and abusive language.”

Following the nail-biting victory over Arsenal, Manchester United will return to action next weekend hosting Fulham at Old Trafford, while Cunha’s disciplinary situation remains under close observation.