Matheus Cunha faces suspension for foul-mouthed celebration, forcing Sky Sports to apologise

Man United edged out Arsenal 3-2 in gameweek 23 of the 2025/26 Premier League season. The hosts led 2-1 for much of the second half before Mikel Merino equalised in the 84th minute. Just three minutes later, Cunha struck a superb long-range effort to seal the victory.

In the heat of the moment, Cunha ran towards the camera to celebrate and was clearly heard shouting “F***ing” live on Sky Sports. Commentator Peter Drury immediately issued an apology to viewers, saying: “If you heard some mad language among the celebrations we apologise.”

Despite the emotional context, Cunha may still face punishment from the Football Association, which has a history of taking a firm stance on swearing during televised matches. The International Football Association Board (IFAB) Laws of the Game state that players “must not use offensive, insulting or abusive language and/or actions.” While the referee did not hear the incident, the FA can still take retrospective action.

Cunha is not the first United player to face such consequences. Wayne Rooney previously received a two-match suspension after swearing on camera following a goal against West Ham. A similar sanction is now expected for the former Wolves forward.

United have already been knocked out of both domestic cup competitions this season, leaving them focused solely on the Premier League. If Cunha is suspended, he would miss upcoming fixtures against Fulham on 1 February and Tottenham on 7 February.

The incident adds to Cunha’s disciplinary record. Last season, he served two separate suspensions, first receiving a two-match ban after a clash with Ipswich Town’s backroom staff, and later a four-game ban following an altercation with Milos Kerkez, who was then playing for Bournemouth.

Cunha joined Manchester United from Wolves for €74.2 million this season. He has scored five goals and provided two assists in 22 appearances, all in the Premier League. Under new head coach Michael Carrick, the Brazilian has often been used as an impact substitute, typically coming on in the second half to replace Bryan Mbeumo or Patrick Dorgu.