Manchester United star Matheus Cunha has avoided additional disciplinary action from UEFA after being caught up in a post-match controversy following the club’s thrilling 3–2 Champions League victory over AS Roma on Tuesday, November 3. 2026

The Brazilian attacker delivered a match-winning performance, scoring twice—including an 86th-minute winner—to cap off a memorable comeback for Michael Carrick’s side.

Stoppage time red card

However, his heroics were overshadowed in the final moments of the game after he received two yellow cards in quick succession: first for taking off his shirt during his wild goal celebration, and shortly after for a late challenge in stoppage time.

Instead of heading directly down the tunnel into the dressing room as mandated by disciplinary rules, an emotional Cunha remained pitchside, sitting on the advertising hoardings to watch the final whistle.

Perhaps overcomed by the euphoria of the rare comeback win, the forward walked back onto the pitch at full-time to applaud supporters in the Sir Bobby Charlton Stand and celebrate with his teammates.

UEFA rules

Under UEFA regulations, any player sent off must leave the immediate vicinity of the pitch and technical area, making Cunha’s return a potential breach of conduct that risked an extended suspension.

The incident sparked immediate concern from head coach Michael Carrick, who spotted the Brazilian on the pitch and quickly intervened, waving him off and ushering him straight toward the tunnel to prevent further escalation.

Although Carrick expressed disappointment with the red card putting United down to 10 men in the closing seconds, he praised the forward’s passion and impact on the pitch.

Despite fears of a harsher penalty, UEFA confirmed that no additional action will be taken.

A spokesperson for European football’s governing body noted that the incident was not included in the referee’s official post-match report, meaning Cunha’s punishment will remain a standard one-match ban, ruling him out only for United’s upcoming fixture against Sporting CP.