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The real reason why Wolves star Matheus Cunha was only handed a two-match ban

In the final match of Gary O’Neil’s tenure at Wolves, Matheus Cunha was involved in an altercation that led to a two-match ban.

Cunha was in hot bother after he ripped the glasses off an Ipswich Town security guard in the aftermath of a 2-1 loss.

The 25-year-old acted out of character by losing his temper at full-time, with it clear that Gary O’Neil had lost the dressing room.

O’Neil was sacked by Wolves as a result following the defeat against Ipswich and Cunha was issued a two-match ban and an £80,000 fine by the FA for his involvement in the violent conduct.

Some Premier League fans felt Cunha’s ban was lenient and he should have been excluded from more than just two games.

However, it’s now emerged why the Brazilian superstar wasn’t given a much harsher punishment.

Wolverhampton Wanderers FC v Ipswich Town FC - Premier League
Photo by Shaun Brooks – CameraSport via Getty Images

Why Matheus Cunha was only banned for two matches

According to a report by the E&S, Cunha’s suspension was reduced from three matches to two because he wrote an apology for his actions.

Vitor Pereira’s star forward also offered to pay for the glasses he broke following the post-match scuffle at Molineux, with those two gestures going a long way.

Cunha missed Wolves’ 3-0 loss against Nottingham Forest on Monday, which was the first of his two-match ban, the second being the trip to Bristol City in the FA Cup on Saturday.

The Brazilian sharpshooter has been in devastating form for his club this term, plundering an impressive 10 goals and four assists in 19 matches.

As a result, Cunha is admired by Arsenal who are looking to bolster their forward line with a striker. However, the Wanderers do want to give him a much improved lucrative contract.

That being said, Cunha intends to consider his options before signing a new deal, perhaps filling supporters with fear.

Cunha is destined to play Champions League football

It seems inevitable that Cunha departs Wolves eventually, with a summer exit looking increasingly likely.

The club have perhaps accepted they’re going to find it difficult to hold onto their prized asset, who looks destined to play Champions League football.

This is why they want to offer him a lucrative contract, so he’s tied down beyond the January transfer window and they can command a huge fee in the summer.

Supporters must enjoy watching their incredible talent while they can, with the below table depicting his importance to Pereira in the fight for survival.

Matheus Cunha 2024/25 Premier League statsStatistic
Games19
Goals10
Assists4
Shots per 903.12
Progressive passes per 904.10
Successful take-ons per 902.25
Shot-creating actions3.98