Why is Cucurella only getting a one-match ban?

Marc Cucurella Handed One-Match Ban After Fulham Red Card

Chelsea left-back Marc Cucurella will serve just a one-match suspension following his red card in Wednesday night’s 2-1 Premier League defeat to Fulham.

The Spaniard was sent off midway through the first half at Craven Cottage after pulling back Harry Wilson, who was clean through on goal. Referee Michael Oliver deemed it a clear denial of an obvious goal-scoring opportunity (DOGSO) and showed Cucurella a straight red card.

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Why Cucurella’s Ban Is Limited to One Match

Under Premier League and FA disciplinary rules, a straight red card for DOGSO carries a one-match suspension, rather than the three-game ban typically associated with serious foul play or violent conduct.

That ruling will come as a small relief for Chelsea, who have struggled badly with discipline this season and have now picked up seven red cards across all competitions.

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Which Games Will Cucurella Miss?

Because red card bans apply across all domestic competitions, Cucurella will miss:

Charlton Athletic vs Chelsea

• FA Cup Third Round
• Saturday
• Liam Rosenior’s first match in charge

However, the left-back will be available for one of Chelsea’s most important fixtures of the season:

Chelsea vs Arsenal

• Carabao Cup semi-final (first leg)

That availability could prove crucial, given Chelsea’s limited defensive options and the importance of the cup competitions as a route to silverware.

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Discipline Still a Growing Concern for Rosenior

While the limited suspension eases the immediate impact, Cucurella’s red card once again highlights Chelsea’s ongoing discipline problem — an issue incoming manager Liam Rosenior will need to address quickly.

With league form faltering, the FA Cup and Carabao Cup now carry extra importance, and Rosenior will be hoping to start his tenure with greater control, composure, and fewer self-inflicted setbacks.

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Key Takeaway

Cucurella’s absence will sting in Rosenior’s debut, but avoiding a longer ban is a welcome break for a Chelsea side that can’t afford further disruption.