Daniel Farke is facing the prospect of a touchline ban after being formally charged by The Football Association in the aftermath of Leeds United‘s Premier League clash with Manchester City.
The Leeds head coach was shown a straight red card at full-time by referee Peter Bankes, moments after the final whistle.
Farke had made his way onto the pitch to question why additional time was not extended, amid what he felt were clear instances of time-wasting from the visitors.
Farke maintains he was informed by the fourth official that further time would be added and has insisted he should “never” have been dismissed, claiming he was sent off before he could finish putting his point across.
After the match, Farke reflected on the incident, noting that his approach may have appeared more confrontational than intended.
He acknowledged that his manner on the pitch did not convey a light or gentle presence, and suggested that the experience had convinced him to avoid stepping onto the field in such a way in future games.
“I’m not light like a butterfly. I don’t look unbelievably cute and sweet when I jog. So I will never jog on the pitch again.” Farke said.
Despite the automatic one-match touchline ban that typically follows a red card for a manager, Farke was present in the technical area for Tuesday night’s 1-0 defeat to Sunderland, with the FA yet to issue its formal charge before kick-off.
The FA alleges Farke entered the field of play after the match to confront officials, an act deemed contrary to Law 12.
Leeds had considered the possibility of an appeal, hopefully that the referee’s bodycam footage might support their manager’s version of events.
However, the risk of an extended suspension if unsuccessful complicates that decision, with Sunday’s FA Cup clash against Norwich ahead.
