Liverpool manager Arne Slot was sent off and given a two-match ban after his outburst at referee Michael Oliver following the Reds’ dramatic draw with Everton last month.
Slot approached Oliver after Everton’s James Tarkowski scored a last-minute equaliser, a goal that Liverpool believed should have been disallowed. The goal stood, costing Liverpool valuable points in the title race.
During the confrontation, Slot allegedly told Oliver, “If we don’t win the league, I’ll f****** blame you.” He then reportedly turned to the assistant referee and shouted twice, “It’s a f****** disgrace.”
Slot admitted to breaking FA rule E3, which prohibits improper conduct or behaviour that disreputes the game. He denied using the language that was reported and claimed he actually said, “If we don’t win the league, I’ll have you to thank for that.”
The FA upheld the match officials’ version of events, stating that Slot’s language was inappropriate, and the difference in wording did not change the severity of the sanction.
Slot did not dispute the accusation of saying “f****** disgrace” to the assistant referee. He clarified that his language was not meant as personal abuse but was an expression of general frustration. The commission agreed that his words were emotive but not intended to personally insult the officials. Slot acknowledged he should have waited until after the match to approach the referees in a more private setting.
