Liverpool manager Arne Slot has been accused of using foul language toward referee Michael Oliver, blaming him for decisions that could affect the club’s Premier League title hopes.
Slot and his assistant, Sipke Hulshoff, were both sent off after angrily confronting Oliver following Liverpool’s heated 2-2 draw against Everton in February. The game saw Everton’s James Tarkowski score a late equalizer, while Curtis Jones of Liverpool and Abdoulaye Doucoure of Everton were sent off after the final whistle due to a scuffle.
An independent panel found Slot and Hulshoff guilty of misconduct, handing them two-match touchline bans and fines. Oliver’s match report described Slot as “confrontational and aggressive,” quoting him as saying, “If we don’t win the league, I’ll blame you.” Slot admitted the charge but claimed he had actually said, “If we don’t win the league, I will have you to thank for that.”
Despite the dispute over wording, the FA ruled that Slot’s actions warranted punishment. The Dutch manager later apologized to Oliver, both privately and publicly, acknowledging that his frustration led to unacceptable behavior.
The regulatory commission stated that as a role model, Slot should uphold discipline and set a positive example for his players. They also noted that his actions did not reflect the standards expected in football.
Despite the controversy, Liverpool remains in a strong position in the title race, sitting 13 points ahead of second-placed Arsenal. They now shift focus to their Champions League last-16 clash against Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday.
