FA confirms punishment for Wolves star Matheus Cunha following misconduct charge

Wolves star Matheus Cunha has been handed a two-match ban and £80,000 fine following a misconduct charge.

The forward has been sanctioned by the FA after a altercation with a member of Ipswich staff in early December.

Cunha will miss the first division home clash against Nottingham Forest on January 6 and the third FA Cup round trip to Bristol City.

The 25-year-old will be available when Vitor Pereira's men travel to Newcastle in the Premier League on January 15.

In the incident against Ipswich, Cunha appeared to elbow a member of the opposing staff before forcibly removing his glasses as teammates and coaches attempted to drag him away.

His behavior was caught on camera and spread on social media after the match, and the FA acted by accusing him of misconduct.

An FA statement added: “The striker was charged with misconduct and it was alleged that he acted inappropriately after the final whistle. He admitted the charge and sanctions were subsequently imposed by an independent Regulatory Commission.

“The full written reasons for this case will be published in due course.”

Cunha's absence is a blow for relegation-threatened Wolves, and the Brazilian is a shining light in what has been a difficult season so far.

The striker has ten goals and four assists in 19 Premier League games this season, including two vital goals since the incident against Ipswich.

Wolves have lost 11 of their 19 league games this season, but their fortunes have improved under new manager Pereira, with wins over Man United and Leicester, followed by a draw at Spurs.

Cunha joined Wolves from Atlético Madrid on an initial loan in January 2023 before making the move permanent the following summer.

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The striker's recent form has him strongly linked with a move away from Molineux, with Arsenal among the clubs interested in his services.

There is a chance his suspension comes at an ideal time for Wolves boss Pereira.

Cunha was taken off at half-time against Spurs on Sunday due to a minor injury.

He would also likely have been rested for the Cup match against Bristol City, with Wolves' focus firmly on Premier League survival.

Speaking after Spurs' draw, Pereira said: “Cunha spoke to me at half-time.

“He said, 'Coach, I felt something in the first half and I don't feel comfortable doing a sprint.'

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“So it's better to stay out of the game in the second half. “Hopefully it's not a (serious) hamstring injury.”