Arne Slot Breaks Silence After Heated Exchange with Referee Michael Oliver

Liverpool Boss Reflects on Touchline Ban After Merseyside Derby Incident

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has acknowledged his need to set a better example following his emotional outburst at referee Michael Oliver during the controversial 2-2 draw against Everton in the Merseyside derby. The incident led to a two-match touchline ban for Slot and his assistant, Spike Hulshoff, as well as a £70,000 fine.

Slot’s Emotional Reaction: “I’ll Blame You”

The dramatic derby saw Liverpool drop crucial points after James Tarkowski’s stoppage-time equalizer. Frustrated by what he perceived as unfair officiating, Slot stormed onto the pitch, accusing Oliver of favoring Everton.

“You fking gave them everything! If we don’t win the league, I’ll fking blame you.”

These words, as recorded in the referee’s report, earned the Dutchman a suspension, though it will only apply to domestic fixtures, meaning he remains on the sidelines for Liverpool’s Champions League clash against PSG.

Slot Regrets His Actions: “I Should Set a Better Example”

Speaking to the media ahead of the European showdown, Slot admitted that he allowed his emotions to take control.

“The moment it happened, I was quite emotional for everything that had happened in the last seven or eight minutes – maybe even the whole game.”

“Now, looking back, I think I should have stayed calm, stayed inside, and spoken to Michael in a different manner.”

Despite his frustration, Slot chose not to further criticize Oliver, who has been at the center of multiple refereeing controversies this season.

“Michael has been in the news quite a lot recently, and I don’t think it helps if I add something now that I have my emotions under control.”

Michael Oliver Under Scrutiny Again

This isn’t the first time Oliver has been in the spotlight. The referee recently faced backlash for:

• Sending off Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly against Wolves – a decision overturned on appeal.
• Overseeing Crystal Palace’s FA Cup clash with Millwall, where Jean-Philippe Mateta suffered a severe head injury but saw action taken only after a VAR review.
• Receiving police protection due to online threats following controversial calls.

Will Slot’s Absence Impact Liverpool’s Title Hopes?

With a tight Premier League title race, Liverpool can’t afford further slip-ups. Will Slot’s suspension disrupt their rhythm, or will the Reds rally in his absence?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!