Former Premier League referee David Coote has been charged by the Football Association for his derogatory comments about Jurgen Klopp.
Coote made headlines in 2024 when a video emerged on social media of the referee making derogatory comments at Liverpool and then-manager Klopp.
In what was a controversial event, another scandal followed after a second video appeared apparently showing Coote snorting a white powder at Euro 2024.
An investigation subsequently ensued which saw Coote sacked by the PGMOL.
Jurgen Klopp during his time as Liverpool manager speaks with Match Referee, David Coote (Photo by Phil Noble/Pool via Getty Images)
Coote has also now been hit with an FA charge for improper conduct but has been cleared of any gambling misconduct following an investigation into allegations he discussed a booking with a fan prior to a match.
FA released a statement that read: “David Coote has been charged with a breach of FA Rule E3 in relation to comments that he made about Jurgen Klopp in a video recorded around July 2020 which appeared on social media in November 2024. It’s alleged that the referee acted in an improper manner and/or used abusive and/or insulting words contrary to FA Rule E3.1. It’s further alleged that this constitutes an ‘Aggravated Breach,’ which is defined in FA Rule E3.2, as it included a reference – whether express or implied – to nationalty. No charges have been issued in relation to allegations of gambling misconduct against David Coote, which were also fully investigated.”
Coote has ventured into a new career as he’s been spotted delivering parcels for Evri as he tries his hand at a new line of work after being hit with a ban from football by UEFA.
