Liverpool are set for discussions with Premier League officials after allegedly violating multi-ball regulations on numerous occasions during their 2-1 home loss to Manchester United on Sunday.
The reigning champions reportedly failed to follow protocols established in 2022, which stipulate that footballers must retrieve balls from designated tees rather than receiving them from ball attendants.
The infractions occurred at Anfield as Liverpool sought an equaliser following Harry Maguire's late goal for the visitors.
Premier League authorities are expected to address these breaches with the Merseyside club in the coming days.
Liverpool are facing a Premier League punishment
|REUTERS
Multiple violations occurred as Liverpool pressed for a late equaliser. Ball attendants were observed throwing balls directly to Liverpool players on several occasions, contravening established procedures.
Manager Arne Slot contributed to the infractions by tossing a ball to one of his players as the match approached the 90-minute mark whilst United maintained their advantage.
The situation deteriorated further when two balls were spotted on the pitch simultaneously on two separate occasions during the closing stages.
These actions violated regulations requiring players to retrieve balls themselves from cones positioned around the pitch, with ball boys and girls prohibited from direct distribution.
The regulations were implemented to accelerate gameplay whilst preventing manipulation of the system. Last season, Aston Villa received a £125,000 penalty after admitting to violations across five fixtures.
Ballboys handed the ball back to Liverpool players, which has been outlawed by the Premier League this season
|SKY SPORTS
Villa's infractions included ball attendants directly passing balls to players, positioning additional balls for corner kicks, and an incident where a ball was thrown onto the pitch whilst the opposing goalkeeper already held one before a goal kick.
The Birmingham club faced additional sanctions, being prohibited from using the multi-ball system during their first three home Premier League fixtures this season.
Liverpool are unlikely to face financial penalties, with sources suggesting a reminder about regulations represents the most probable outcome. This contrasts with Villa's substantial fine, which resulted from persistent violations across multiple fixtures.
Manchester United's delegation reportedly noticed the infractions but opted against lodging an official complaint with league officials.
Both clubs have refused to provide statements regarding the matter. The Premier League similarly declined to comment, though standard procedure involves reminding clubs about compliance with established protocols.