Manuel Ugarte could face disciplinary action after headbutting Kai Havertz during Manchester United’s FA Cup third-round match against Arsenal on Sunday.
Bruno Fernandes gave United the lead with a superb second-half strike, but Gabriel quickly leveled for Arsenal following Diogo Dalot’s red card.
Controversy ensued when Arsenal won a penalty after minimal contact from Harry Maguire on Havertz, only for Martin Odegaard’s spot-kick to be brilliantly saved by Altay Bayindir.
Tensions flared after the penalty decision, leading to a brawl sparked by Maguire confronting Havertz. Ugarte intervened and appeared to headbutt Havertz, who fell to the ground.
Referee Andrew Madley didn’t penalize the incident during the match, but the FA may review the footage and issue a retrospective three-match ban for violent conduct.
With VAR unavailable for this third-round fixture, the clash between Ugarte and Havertz might have been missed by the on-field officials.
Arsenal squandered chances to capitalize on their numerical advantage, with Havertz and Declan Rice missing key opportunities. The match ended 1-1 after extra time, sending it to penalties.
Altay Bayindir emerged as the hero for United, saving Havertz’s penalty and helping secure a 5-3 shootout victory. This result sends Ruben Amorim’s side through to the FA Cup fourth round.