Matheus Cunha has been dealt an additional one-match suspension and a hefty 50,000 pound fine after a reckless incident in Wolves’ FA Cup defeat to Bournemouth.
The Brazilian forward had already been given a three-match ban for kicking out at Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez and headbutting him, but following further review, his suspension has now been extended to four matches.
This news is a major setback for Wolves, as manager Vitor Pereira faces the difficult task of steering the team away from relegation to the Championship.
Cunha has already served two matches of his suspension—the 1-1 draw against Everton and the 2-1 win at Southampton. He will now miss upcoming games against West Ham at home and an away trip to Ipswich, with his suspension set to end just in time for Wolves’ home fixture against Tottenham on April 13.
An FA statement confirmed the ruling, explaining that Cunha was charged with improper conduct after his red card in the FA Cup tie against Bournemouth on March 1. The statement also noted that the forward admitted to the charge, and an independent Regulatory Commission imposed the additional suspension and fine after a hearing. Written reasons for the sanctions will be provided at a later date.
This season, Cunha has been a key player for Wolves, scoring 13 goals and providing four assists in the Premier League, attracting interest from top clubs like Arsenal and Liverpool. However, to quell transfer rumors, Cunha signed a new contract at the start of the year, securing his future at the club until 2029.
Wolves’ sporting director Matt Hobbs praised the new contract, stating, “It’s a reward for everything Matheus has done for us, and it shows just how important he is to the team. Matheus loves the club and appreciates the opportunity we’ve given him.”
