Jose Mourinho ‘faces three-game ban after accusing referee of being a Juventus SPY’ in meltdown against Verona
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ROMA boss Jose Mourinho could be banned for up to three games after reportedly accusing a top-flight referee of working against his side on behalf of rivals Juventus.
Italian daily newspaper reports that during Roma's Serie A clash with Verona on Saturday, Mourinho shouted at official Luca Pairetto: "They sent you here on purpose, Juventus sent you."
in the closing stages of the match after reacting angrily to decisions made by Pairetto in the 2-2 draw.
The former Chelsea and Manchester United manager pointed at his head, implying the ref had made some questionable calls.
The Portuguese also kicked the ball into the air to show his frustration and then had to be held back by his coaching staff as he reacted furiously to Pairetto showing him a red card.
But the could elevate any resulting punishment if proved true.
In their report of the incident, explain that Pairetto’s brother Alberto has been working for Juventus for eight years in a commercial role.
It adds that the experienced Pairetto, 37, has taken charge of 92 Serie A matches.
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The football context for habitually competitive Mourniho's frustrations is that Juve are one of Roma's biggest rivals for a top-four finish.
Verona were leading 2-0 at half-time but goals from subs Cristian Volpato and Edoardo Bove earned Roma a point.
After the match Mourinho, who now faces a likely touchline ban in any event for the dismissal, wrote on Instagram: "I love these people and for them I fight."