- Liverpool manager Arne Slot has received a two-match touchline ban following his furious reaction to Everton’s late equaliser in the Merseyside derby
- The controversy arose after Liverpool players claimed Konaté was fouled in the build-up to Everton’s equaliser, but VAR did not intervene
- Slot will miss Liverpool’s matches against Wolves and Aston Villa but will return for the crucial clash against Manchester City on February 23
Table toppers Liverpool’s hard-fought Merseyside derby against Everton ended in chaos on Wednesday night, February 12, with manager Arne Slot receiving an extended touchline ban for his furious reaction to a late equaliser at Goodison Park.
The Reds were moments away from securing three crucial points before James Tarkowski’s stunning volley in stoppage time snatched a 2-2 draw for Everton, sparking outrage among the visitors.
The controversy stemmed from Liverpool’s belief that Ibrahima Konaté had been fouled in the build-up to the goal.
Despite their protests, VAR did not intervene, allowing the goal to stand. Slot was livid on the touchline, confronting match officials both during and after the game. His fury led to a red card, and the Dutchman was barred from post-match media duties under Premier League rules.
Premier League explains Slot’s suspension
The Premier League later confirmed Slot’s punishment, stating:
"Liverpool head coach Arne Slot was dismissed at the end of the Merseyside derby for using offensive, insulting, or abusive language. He is handed a two-match touchline ban as a result."
While a standard dismissal carries a one-game suspension, the additional match ban was enforced due to the nature of his outburst.
As a result, Slot will be absent from the touchline for Liverpool’s upcoming fixtures against Wolves and Aston Villa but will return for their clash against Manchester City on February 23.
What Slot reportedly said to officials
Though the Premier League has not publicly disclosed Slot’s exact words, professional lip reader Jeremy Freeman provided a script of the heated exchange to a news outlet. According to Freeman, Slot fumed at one assistant referee, saying:
"That’s not a push? It’s a f**king disgrace... if you go and watch that again." He then sarcastically praised another official with a sharp, “Well done.”
When shaking hands with referee Michael Oliver, Slot reportedly added,
"Great game."
As Virgil van Dijk attempted to intervene, the former Feyenoord boss allegedly continued,
"Sure, you give me a red for that? I will check it out for later... me and you yeah? Sure give me a red card... we'll talk after?"
Who takes charge in Slot’s absence?
With assistant manager Sipke Hulshoff also dismissed, former Everton defender Johnny Heitinga is expected to take temporary charge of Liverpool’s touchline duties.
Despite the dramatic ending, Liverpool remain seven points clear at the top of the Premier League after 24 games. However, Slot’s absence could pose a challenge as the title race continues.
Slot shrugs off Alexander-Arnold’s Real Madrid links after United draw
Previously, TheRadar reported that Liverpool manager Arne Slot dismissed suggestions that transfer speculation played a role in Trent Alexander-Arnold’s underwhelming performance during Liverpool’s 2-2 draw against Manchester United at Anfield.
Alexander-Arnold, in the final six months of his contract, struggled defensively and was partially responsible for United’s opening goal, leaving questions about his focus amidst swirling transfer rumours.
