Manchester United is set to receive a substantial fine from the Football Association (FA) following their contentious FA Cup third-round victory over Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. This marks the third time this season that the club has breached a specific rule, leading to an increase in penalties.
The match was characterized by high tension and aggressive play, with Ruben Amorim's side advancing to the fourth round on penalties after playing for an hour with only 10 men. Diogo Dalot, Manchester United's Portuguese full-back, received a second yellow card in the 61st minute for a reckless lunge on Mikel Merino. Consequently, United had to navigate through normal time and an additional 30 minutes of extra-time with one player less.
Dalot will now face suspension during Thursday's Premier League clash against Southampton but will be eligible to return for Brighton's visit on Sunday.
String of bookings
Referee Andy Madley issued eight bookings during this heated encounter. Six of these were given to Manchester United players - Dalot (two), Lisandro Martinez, Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire - resulting in a £75,000 fine for the club.
Clubs are penalized when they receive six or more bookings in one match. The fine increases by £25,000 each time it happens within a season. This game marked the third instance where Manchester United has received six cards in one fixture this term.
The match also witnessed controversy inside visitors' penalty area when Arsenal was awarded a disputed penalty kick. However, Altay Bayindir saved shots from Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz during the shootout securing his team’s victory.
Previous fines
Manchester United had previously been fined for accumulating yellow cards against Tottenham Hotspur in September and Chelsea in November. During the 3-0 home defeat to Spurs, United received five yellow cards and a straight red card for Fernandes. In their 1-1 draw with Chelsea at Old Trafford, six of their players were cautioned, including stoppage time bookings for Martinez and Amad Diallo.
This recent fine serves as a reminder of the importance of discipline on the pitch. While aggressive play can sometimes be part of the game's strategy, it is crucial that teams maintain control to avoid unnecessary penalties that could impact not only their finances but also player availability due to suspensions.
