Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Matheus Cunha has been handed a two-match suspension by the Football Association (FA) following a post-match altercation earlier this month.
The Incident with Ipswich Town Security
The Brazilian international was involved in a controversial clash with a member of Ipswich Town’s security team after Wolves’ dramatic 2-1 loss to the Tractor Boys. During the altercation, Cunha was reported to have forcibly removed the staff member’s glasses, a move that
drew widespread criticism.
Despite being charged with misconduct by the FA shortly after the incident, Wolves filed an appeal that allowed Cunha to feature in the team’s last three Premier League matches. During this period, Wolves secured an impressive seven points, boosting their campaign.
FA’s Statement on the Punishment
On Tuesday, the FA released an official statement confirming Cunha’s punishment.
The statement read:
“Matheus Cunha has been suspended for two games and fined £80,000 following the Premier League fixture between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Ipswich Town on Saturday 14 December 2024.
The forward was charged with misconduct, and it was alleged that he acted in an improper manner after the final whistle.
He admitted the charge, and the sanctions were subsequently imposed by an Independent Regulatory Commission. Full written reasons for this case will be published in due course.”
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Matches Cunha Will Miss
The suspension means Cunha will be unavailable for Wolves’ Premier League clash with Nottingham Forest on January 6 and their FA Cup third-round fixture against Bristol City on January 11.
Timing of the Suspension: A Blessing in Disguise?
Although some might argue that Cunha was fortunate to avoid a longer ban, the timing of his suspension might prove beneficial for the 25-year-old.
Cunha suffered a potential hamstring issue during Wolves’ recent Premier League match against Tottenham Hotspur, forcing his substitution at halftime. Prior to this, the forward had been a consistent presence in Wolves’ lineup, playing full matches since late October.
Now sidelined until Wolves’ January 15 showdown with Newcastle United at St James’ Park, Cunha will have the opportunity to recover and regain fitness ahead of this crucial fixture.
Conclusion
While the suspension and fine mark a setback for Cunha, they also offer the Brazilian attacker a chance to rest during a demanding schedule. For Wolves, this enforced break might provide a window for reflection and a chance to reset ahead of their upcoming matches.
