Arne Slot has been handed an extended ban after being sent off minutes after Liverpool conceded a last-gasp equaliser in the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park.
Liverpool’s Arne Slot Handed Two-Match Touchline Ban After Fiery Merseyside Derby
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has been hit with a two-match touchline ban following his heated reaction after the 2-2 draw against Everton at Goodison Park on Wednesday night.
Controversial Equalizer Sparks Outrage
With Liverpool leading 2-1 in stoppage time, Everton captain James Tarkowski fired home a stunning volley to snatch a dramatic late equalizer. However, Liverpool players and fans were left furious, claiming Ibrahima Konaté was fouled in the build-up. Despite their protests, VAR did not intervene, allowing the goal to stand.
Slot, clearly enraged, protested furiously on the touchline and continued his complaints after the final whistle. His anger escalated as he confronted referee Michael Oliver during the customary post-match handshake.
Four Red Cards After Full-Time Chaos
The chaotic ending saw Slot and his assistant Sipke Hulshoff both sent off after the final whistle, along with Curtis Jones (Liverpool) and Abdoulaye Doucouré (Everton) for their post-game altercation.
The Premier League has since explained Slot’s red card, confirming that he was dismissed for “offensive, insulting, or abusive language” directed at the match officials.
Slot Banned for Two Matches
As a result, Slot will serve a two-game touchline ban, meaning he will be absent from the dugout for Liverpool’s next two Premier League fixtures.
In an official statement, the Premier League clarified:
“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.”
With tensions already high over refereeing decisions in recent Liverpool matches, Slot’s suspension only adds to the frustration for the Reds as they continue their title push.
Confusion Over Arne Slot’s Touchline Ban After Merseyside Derby Drama
Liverpool manager Arne Slot is set to miss upcoming Premier League games against Wolves and Aston Villa, following his red card after the 2-2 draw with Everton. However, reports now suggest the Premier League may have made an error in initially stating he would serve a two-match ban.
Why Was Slot Banned?
The Dutchman was dismissed after the final whistle for “offensive, insulting, or abusive language” directed at the match officials. It is now understood that his use of abusive language led to an additional one-game ban, extending his suspension to two matches.
This means Slot will return to the dugout for Liverpool’s huge clash against Manchester City at the Etihad on 23 February.
Johnny Heitinga Set to Lead in Slot’s Absence
With assistant Sipke Hulshoff also sent off, former Everton defender Johnny Heitinga is expected to take charge from the touchline for the Reds’ upcoming fixtures.
Lip Reader Reveals Slot’s Comments to Officials
While the Premier League has not officially disclosed what Slot said, professional lip reader Jeremy Freeman has analyzed the footage and claims Slot’s outburst included:
- To an assistant referee: “That’s not a push? It’s a f**king disgrace… if you go and watch that again.”
- To another official: “Well done.” (sarcastically)
- Before shaking hands with Michael Oliver: “Great game.” (sarcastically)
- After being shown a red card: “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?”
Liverpool’s Title Race Continues
Despite the controversy, Liverpool remain seven points clear at the top of the Premier League, with Arsenal trailing behind after 24 games played. Slot’s absence from the touchline will be a test for the Reds, but their focus remains on maintaining their lead in the title race.
