Everton, Liverpool and Arne Slot charged by FA after Merseyside derby melee

The Merseyside derby at Goodison Park ended in chaotic scenes on Wednesday, leading the Football Association (FA) to charge Everton, Liverpool, and Liverpool manager Arne Slot. This incident has sparked widespread attention, resulting in subsequent investigations and accusations, highlighting the intensity of the rivalry.

Both Everton and Liverpool clubs are accused of failing to ensure their players "did not behave in an improper and/or provocative manner" after the final whistle. This charge reflects the FA's strict requirements for maintaining order and player conduct during matches. Simultaneously, Liverpool manager Slot is accused of acting improperly and/or using insulting and/or abusive language and/or behavior towards referee Michael Oliver and one of his assistant referees, resulting in his dismissal with a red card, emphasizing the seriousness of his alleged actions.

Slot's assistant, Sipke Hulshoff, who was also sent off, faces similar charges for his improper conduct before and after his dismissal. This series of accusations underscores the importance of behavioral standards for players and coaches during matches. All parties, including the clubs, Slot, and Hulshoff, have until Wednesday, February 19, to respond to these charges, ensuring a fair process for addressing the allegations.

The late-game chaos began after James Tarkowski scored a dramatic 98th-minute equalizer for Everton, which was awarded after a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) check. Liverpool insists the goal should have been disallowed because Toffees forward Beto pushed Reds defender Ibrahima Konate in the build-up. Everton midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure celebrated in front of Liverpool fans after the final whistle before clashing with Reds midfielder Curtis Jones, with both players being sent off for second bookable offenses, adding fuel to the already intense atmosphere.

Reds boss Slot said at his Friday press conference that "emotions got the better of him" and that he should have "acted differently." Slot is expected to be on the touchline for Liverpool's Premier League match against Wolves at Anfield on Sunday. The draw moved Liverpool seven points clear at the top of the Premier League table, while neighbors Everton moved up to 15th, 10 points clear of the relegation zone. Initially, the Premier League reported on its website that Slot would serve a two-match ban "for using offensive, insulting or abusive language," but later deleted the report; it is understood to have been an erroneous post caused by human error, clarifying the situation and preventing further confusion.