Liverpool manager Arne Slot has been accused of launching a foul-mouthed tirade at referee Michael Oliver, blaming the official for his team’s Premier League title race struggles.
Slot and his assistant, Sipke Hulshoff, were both sent off following Liverpool’s heated 2-2 draw against Everton in February. The pair confronted Oliver on the pitch after James Tarkowski’s stoppage-time equaliser and a post-match scuffle that saw Curtis Jones and Abdoulaye Doucoure receive red cards.
According to Oliver’s match report, Slot aggressively told him, “You’ve given them everything, I hope you’re proud of that performance.” The referee further alleged that Slot later returned to say, “If we don’t win the league, I’ll blame you.”
Slot admitted to the charges but argued he had actually said, “If we don’t win the league, I will have you to thank for that.” The Football Association (FA) maintained that Oliver’s version was accurate and upheld the two-match touchline ban and a fine.
Slot has since apologised to Oliver, both publicly and privately, acknowledging that his frustration got the better of him. The independent regulatory commission stated that as a high-profile figure, he should have set a better example.
Despite the controversy, Liverpool remain in pole position for a record-equalling 20th league title, sitting 13 points clear of second-placed Arsenal. They next face Paris Saint-Germain in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie on Wednesday.
