After a video purportedly showing the Premier League referee making derogatory comments against former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp went viral on social media, the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) “terminated with immediate effect” David Coote’s job. Coote was first placed on leave in November while a thorough inquiry was conducted.

On November 11, Coote was suspended pending a complete investigation after a video appeared on social media purportedly showing him making disrespectful comments against former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp.

With immediate effect, David Coote’s employment with PGMOL has been terminated following the completion of a comprehensive inquiry into his conduct.

“David Coote’s actions were found to be in serious breach of the arrangements of his business contract, with his position regarded untenable. “We are dedicated to David Coote’s welfare and support him going forward. David Coote Has a right to appeal the decision to terminate his employment” in another affirmation from the PGMOL.
The claimed footage of Coote using foul language to criticize Klopp seemed to be about Liverpool’s 1-1 draw with Burnley at Anfield in 2020, which Coote officiated. According to the incident, Coote had “acknowledged the viral video in which he shows up is true,” but “it is accepted he does not review the actual content of the dialogue, recorded long time ago.”

The following day, the Football Association (FA) promptly launched an investigation, leading to Coote’s suspension; however, when a second video surfaced the next day, a follow-up investigation was initiated by The Sun.
Because the video purportedly captured Coote during Euro 2024, when he was employed by UEFA as a match official, the tournament’s organisers suspended Coote and began their own inquiry on November 13.
During the 2017–18 season, Coote was promoted to the Premier League and managed the 2023 EFL Cup final between Manchester United and Newcastle United at Wembley Stadium.