Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has launched a scathing attack on the officiating team following his side’s dramatic draw against Manchester City at Anfield. The highly anticipated clash, which could have significant implications for the Premier League title race, was marred by controversy in the dying minutes after a challenge by City’s Jeremy Doku on Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister went unpunished.
Klopp’s fury stemmed from a high boot from Doku that made contact with Mac Allister’s chest in the penalty area. Replays showed the contact was undeniable, but neither the referee nor the VAR team deemed it worthy of a penalty award. This decision left Klopp fuming, and he unloaded his frustration in a post-match interview with Sky Sports.
“He [Doku] can only hit the ball because his foot is right there,” Klopp remarked sarcastically. “They [officials] say: hit the ball. But if the ball is not there he kills him, the foot has nothing to do with it!”
His comments hinted at a belief that the officials were actively searching for reasons to excuse Doku’s challenge, suggesting a bias against Liverpool. He further added, “The referee will find something, all the other as well [to excuse it],” implying a wider officiating conspiracy against his team.
Klopp’s outburst highlights the immense pressure surrounding the Premier League title race. With both teams separated by a single point, every decision can have a significant impact on the final outcome. The controversial incident has reignited discussions about the use of VAR in the Premier League, with some questioning its effectiveness in ensuring fair play.
