Matheus Cunha avoided a yellow card immediately after taunting Everton’s James Garner.
The Manchester United forward sparked confrontational scenes between players from both sides during the closing stages of Monday night’s clash.
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Cunha’s antics occurred during stoppage time as the Red Devils saw out a narrow 1-0 victory away from home.
The Brazilian had held off Garner as he shepherded the ball out of play for a United goal kick deep into stoppage-time.
He reacted by celebrating in the Toffees midfielder’s face, prompting an angry reaction from his teammates.
James Tarkowski had to be held back by Red Devils defender Luke Shaw as he attempted to confront Cunha as a melee threatened to ensue.
The United star would avoid going into referee Darren England’s book, though.
Instead, he was immediately substituted by Michael Carrick and replaced by Ayden Heaven for the final moments.
It is unclear whether the change had already been planned prior to the incident.
Cunha has been booked just once in the Premier League so far this season.
His only previous caution came in stoppage time of another 1-0 win for United against Newcastle United on Boxing Day.
Since joining the club from Wolves in the summer, Cunha has scored six goals and added two assists in 24 Premier League appearances.
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Only fellow summer signings Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko have scored more goals for United in the competition this term.
United’s fine form continues
United would go on to close out their victory as they maintained their unbeaten record under caretaker boss Carrick.
The result sees them move back into the top four at Chelsea’s expense.
Meanwhile, they are just three points behind third place Aston Villa.
Since Carrick returned to the club last month, the Red Devils have dropped just two points from their six Premier League matches.
Benjamin Sesko’s second half goal has extended their unbeaten league run to 10 matches, dating back to Ruben Amorim’s tenure.
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It is the club’s longest streak without a defeat since a 14-game stretch under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in 2021.
Carrick will be hoping to continue his impressive start at home to Crystal Palace on Sunday.
More to follow.
