United forward Matheus Cunha avoided a booking after celebrating directly in front of Everton midfielder James Garner, sparking controversy late in the match. The Brazilian appeared to shield the ball near the corner flag during stoppage time as Michael Carrick’s side attempted to protect their narrow lead.
Cunha thrust his fists toward Garner’s face before falling to the ground and continuing his celebration after winning a goal kick. Everton were pressing hard for an equaliser, and defender James Tarkowski had to be restrained by Luke Shaw as tempers flared.
The United playmaker escaped a yellow card from referee Darren England, with Carrick quickly reacting by substituting Cunha and introducing Ayden Heaven.
It remains uncertain whether the change had been planned beforehand or was prompted by Cunha’s behaviour near the touchline. Former United defender Gary Neville described the Brazilian’s actions as “antagonistic” toward Garner.
Speaking during commentary, Neville said: "They’ve both given each other plenty throughout the game. Garner’s done well and Cunha’s done well. They’ve competed hard. Cunha celebrating in Garner’s face is antagonistic."
Despite the incident, Cunha avoided a caution, which would have been only his second yellow card in the Premier League this season.
United held firm to collect a vital three points in their pursuit of Champions League qualification, climbing to fourth place in the standings.
Sesko scored the winner in the 71st minute, with all three of United’s summer arrivals — Sesko, Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo — combining in the move that produced the goal.
It was not United’s strongest display since Carrick assumed interim control, but the result lifted them three points clear of Chelsea in fifth after the London club’s draw with Burnley over the weekend.
United are now unbeaten in ten matches dating back to Ruben Amorim’s final games in charge, though their form peaked earlier with wins over Manchester City and Arsenal in Carrick’s opening fixtures.
They have been unable to reproduce those standout performances but continue to grind out results, returning to winning ways after a recent draw with West Ham United.
After the Everton victory, Carrick praised Cunha’s contribution, saying: "That summed up where we were tonight. We had to put a lot into the match and everyone did. Credit to Everton for making us work hard — it wasn’t the prettiest game for us in football terms.
"But Matheus, with his defensive effort and work rate, gave us that moment we know he can create. He made the difference, and it came from him working deep defensively before driving the transition.
"He’s a great character and I’ve enjoyed getting to know him. Another big moment for Matheus — he’s had several since the very beginning, starting with his impact at City. He was decisive again today and he’s in a really good place right now."
