Premier League Coach Risks Ban After Remark About English Referees

Premier League Coach Risks Ban After Remark About English Referees

Rene Otinga
updated at February 13, 2024 at 11:54 AM
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  • Roberto de Zerbi recently went on a tirade about England referees
  • The Brighton boss said he did not like most of the country's officials
  • His comments are reportedly being looked at and he could face a ban

Brighton manager, Roberto de Zerbi has risked a ban or a hefty fine over his comments about English referees after his side’s latest Premier League game.

The Seagulls dropped precious points on November 14 as they drew 1-1 with league strugglers, Sheffield United.

Following the match, De Zerbi openly criticised centre referee, John Brook and fourth official, Andy Madley over their officiating.

De Zerbi
Roberto De Zerbi coaches his players during the UEFA Europa League 2023/24 Group B match between AFC Ajax and Brighton on November 9, 2023 in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Photo by Rene Nijhuis.
Source: Getty Images
"I am honest and clear and I don’t like 80 per cent of referees in England," the Italian manager said after the game, per The Athletic. "It’s not a new thing. I don’t like them or their behaviour on the pitch."

This is not the first time de Zerbi has criticised match officials since he began his managerial reign in the Premier League. On this occasion, he was critical of Mahmoud Dahoud’s red card on Sunday, which completely changed the complexion of the game.

As Sky Sports reported, Brighton were leading Sheffield United 1-0 when the German midfielder was dismissed in the 69th minute for stamping on Ben Osborn's ankle.

The Blades found an equaliser five minutes later through an Adan Webster own goal, leaving De Zerbi frustrated.

Did de Zerbi cross a line with his remarks?

Some PGMOL insiders now feel the Italian has crossed the line with his consistent criticism of referees, and the FA is said to be reviewing his latest comments. If found guilty, he faces a touchline ban or a hefty fine.

As the BBC reported, De Zerbi is no stranger to sanctions from the football body, as he was handed a touchline ban in March for a similar situation. At the time, he was sent off against Fulham as Brighton lost 1-0.

He was sure to make his feelings known to match officials at full-time and those actions earned him a £15,000 fine and a one-match touchline ban.

Why Haaland was awarded penalty vs Chelsea

Sports Brief also reported on why Erling Haaland won a penalty on Sunday despite appearing to foul Marc Cucurella in the build-up.

The Chelsea defender was adjudged to have fouled the Manchester City dangerman as the ball was swung back into the area.

Taylor overlooked the incident the first time but his assistant, Gary Beswick, had a clear view and advising him on what to do.

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Rene Otinga
Rene Otinga is a sports journalist with over eight years of working experience in digital media. Rene's experience includes working as a Copywriter at X News Kenya and TUKO.co.ke.