Manuel Ugarte headbutted Kai Haverz during Manchester United’s FA Cup win over Arsenal (Reuters)
Manuel Ugarte is facing a potential ban after he headbutted Kai Havertz during Manchester United’s FA Cup third-round tie against Arsenal on Sunday.
Bruno Fernandes put United in front with an excellent finish in the second half but just two minutes after Diogo Dalot was sent off, Gabriel scored Arsenal’s equaliser.
Mikel Arteta’s side were then awarded a penalty after Harry Maguire was punished for minimal contact on Havertz inside United’s area, but Martin Odegaard’s spot kick was well saved by United goalkeeper Altay Bayindir.
Moments after the penalty was awarded by referee Andrew Madley, the two sides were involved in a huge brawl as Maguire initially went to confront Havertz.
Ugarte stepped in and television replays have shown that the United midfielder thrust his head towards the Arsenal forward, who then fell to the floor.
Manuel Ugarte was not punished for his clash with Kai Havertz (Allstar via Getty)
The incident did not appear to be seen by Madley as Ugarte did not receive a yellow card, however, the United midfielder could now face retrospective action from the FA.
As with all of the FA Cup third-round ties this weekend, VAR was not used in United’s match against Arsenal therefore the clash involving Ugarte and Havertz may have been missed by the officiating team on the pitch.
Ugarte could be handed a three-match ban if the incident is deemed as violent conduct.
Arsenal had the chance to take the lead against a 10-man United with both Havertz and Declan Rice missing excellent opportunities from close range.
The match remained 1-1 after 30 minutes of extra time and then went to penalties.
Bayindir emerged as United’s hero in the shootout as he saved Havertz’s penalty, while Ruben Amorim’s side sealed a 5-3 win to secure their place in the FA Cup fourth round.
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