Matheus Cunha scored two goals and was sent off during Manchester United's win over Roma in the Champions League
Matheus Cunha of Manchester United reacts after being sent off
Matheus Cunha of Manchester United reacts after being sent off(Image: Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)
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Matheus Cunha could be set to receive further punishment after appearing to break a UEFA rule after Manchester United’s win over Roma. The Reds claimed a 3-2 victory over the Italian club in the Champions League at Old Trafford on Tuesday night.
Bruno Fernandes got United’s first goal of the night from the penalty spot in the second half, after the Reds had gone into the interval trailing 2-0 on home soil.
Cunha then scored a brace in the closing stages of the second half, and received a yellow card for his celebration after the winning goal.
The Brazilian went on to receive another booking a few minutes later and was sent off, but could be seen watching the final minutes of the game whilst sitting on an advertising board.
After the final whistle, Cunha attempted to return to the pitch to celebrate with his teammates before being greeted by manager Michael Carrick.
The United boss and Cunha had a brief interaction, which led to the former Wolves playmaker appearing to be upset before making his way back towards the tunnel.
It’s believed that Carrick had instructed Cunha to go back to the dressing room in order to avoid being given another punishment following his red card.
However, it seems that Cunha could now be in line for further punishment after appearing to break one of the rules set by UEFA.
READ MORE: Man United hero Matheus Cunha fumes after exchanging words with Michael Carrick on pitch
Under IFAB Law 12, which covers fouls and misconduct, players who are sent off must leave the pitch and either go to the dressing room or a spectator area.
If a player were to re-enter the pitch after being sent off, for instance, to celebrate their team’s victory, they would be deemed to have breached the laws of the game and could receive a further punishment.
Whilst it remains unknown if and what punishment Cunha could get, it’s been stated in the laws that it could lead to an extended ban for the United star, as well as fines for both the player and the club.
Only when the referee submits their official match report will it become clearer if Cunha could receive further punishment following United’s victory.
Cunha helped United bring an end to their nine-game run without a win across all competitions, and will now prepare for the Premier League clash against Aston Villa this weekend.