The Football Association has charged former Premier League referee David Coote with misconduct over abusive remarks made about Jürgen Klopp. The comments, which included calling the former Liverpool manager a “German cunt,” were filmed and posted online in November, leading to Coote’s suspension and eventual sacking.
The FA alleges that Coote acted in an improper manner and used abusive and insulting words, breaching Rule E3.1. The reference to Klopp’s nationality constitutes an aggravated offence under FA rules. If found guilty, Coote is likely to face a financial penalty.
The video, believed to date from the 2020-21 season, shows Coote criticising Klopp for a previous confrontation during a match against Burnley. Coote was suspended by the Professional Game Match Officials Ltd in November after the video emerged, and later sacked in December following further revelations, including a clip appearing to show him snorting cocaine.
Coote has avoided charges related to allegations that he agreed to issue a yellow card before a match, which he denied as “false and defamatory.” The FA will also not pursue gambling misconduct charges. In January, Coote told the Sun that his closeted sexuality had led to a “whole course of behaviours,” including drug use. He was also suspended by Uefa from officiating in European competition until June 2026.
