English FA upholds Durán, Bentancur’s sanctions, fines Cunha £80,000

The English Football Association has announced a series of disciplinary actions across Premier League, FA, and games from other divisions.

Players, coaches, and agents were sanctioned for misconduct both on and off the pitch.

The sanctions, PUNCH Online reports, more than 50 cases, were detailed in a release titled “Disciplinary charges, responses and suspensions for December 2024,” on its website.

Our correspondent, in this report, takes a look at the sanctions three EPL players were involved in.

Matheus Cunha: £80,000 Fine and Two-Game Ban

Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Matheus Cunha has been handed a two-match suspension and an £80,000 fine for improper conduct following his team’s December 14, 2024 clash against Ipswich Town.

The specific details of Cunha’s actions were not disclosed, but the FA confirmed the breach of Rule E3.1. Wolves will now be without their key striker for critical matches, a setback in their pursuit of a top-half finish.

Jhon Durán: Three-Game Suspension Upheld

Aston Villa’s Jhon Durán faces a turbulent week after two separate disciplinary rulings stemming from their Boxing Day fixture against Newcastle United.

Durán was initially dismissed in the 32nd minute for violent conduct. Post-match, the FA reported additional improper behaviour by the player, violating Rule E3.1.

Although Durán admitted guilt in a paper hearing, his claims of wrongful dismissal and excessive punishment were dismissed. He will serve a three-match suspension, leaving Villa to fill the void during a crucial period in their campaign.

Rodrigo Bentancur: Seven-Match Ban and £100,000 Fine

Tottenham Hotspur’s Rodrigo Bentancur received the heaviest penalty, following an aggravated breach of Rule E3.1 during an interview filmed in June 2024. The Uruguayan midfielder was found guilty of using abusive and racially insensitive language, bringing the game into disrepute.

The FA’s Regulatory Commission imposed a seven-match suspension, a £100,000 fine, and mandatory face-to-face education.

However, Bentancur’s appeal, which contested the severity of the suspension, was dismissed, reinforcing the FA’s zero-tolerance stance on discriminatory behaviour.