Manuel Ugarte could be subject to retrospective action by the Football Association for his role in an on-field brawl during Manchester United’s spectacular FA Cup triumph against Arsenal on Sunday.
Excitement erupted midway through the second half when Arsenal were awarded a penalty for an alleged foul on Kai Havertz from Harry Maguire, who was furious at the decision. United’s angst turned into a multi-player brawl, with Ugarte and Havertz at the center.
Havertz found himself on the ground after a clash with Ugarte, who appeared to tilt his head towards the Arsenal forward. Even though contact has been minimal, the FA will have to question Ugarte’s intentions.
As no VAR was operational – the system will not be used until the fifth round of the FA Cup – Ugarte’s action was not reviewed and appears to have been missed by the on-field referee, who did not Didn’t show a yellow card in midfield. .
Havertz, who was also seen with his hand around Ugarte’s throat, was shown a yellow card, suggesting the referee timed the German’s actions and gave him what he felt was the appropriate punishment .
If Ugarte’s alleged header was missed, it could trigger an investigation which could lead to a suspension of the summer signing, who has won over United fans in recent weeks with his ruthless attitude during matches.
“When we have the ball it’s a game and when we don’t have it it’s a fight,” Ugarte wrote on social media after the match. “Let’s always continue together.”
