Mourinho escapes FA sanction for pre-derby comment

The English Football Association said Thursday Jose Mourinho will face no sanction following an investigation of comment he made before the recent Manchester derby. The FA said it has decided to take "no formal action" after reviewing evidence provided by Mourinho's club Manchester United, understood to be relating to suggestion that Manchester City players make "tactical fouls" to break up opponent's attacks. However it "reminded Jose Mourinho any further public comment about match official may result in disciplinary action".

Reports suggest that milk and water were thrown at #ManchesterUnited boss Jose #Mourinho from within the City dressing room.https://t.co/oxFMJwhl7z

— FirstpostSports (@FirstpostSports) December 21, 2017

Mourinho's escape from disciplinary action comes after the FA announced that no formal action would be taken against United or City following ugly scenes that overshadowed the derby at Old Trafford earlier this month. City beat United 2-1 to consolidate their position at the top of the Premier League on December 10. The visitor's celebrations after the match are alleged to have sparked a row involving several players and staff from both teams in the corridor outside the dressing rooms.

Jose Mourinho to face no FA action over media comments before Manchester derby this month. Reminded he may face disciplinary action if he makes further public comments about match officials. #MUFC #SSN

— Bryan Swanson (@skysports_bryan) December 21, 2017

During the altercation, it is understood that milk and water were thrown at Mourinho from within the City dressing room. Reports said City assistant coach Mikel Arteta was left with a cut below his eye after being hit by a plastic bottle. The FA asked the clubs to explain the post-match fracas. But in a statement Thursday, the FA said: "Following a review of the evidence provided by the clubs and independent eyewitnesses, the FA will be taking no formal action."

The Football Association says Manchester City and Manchester United will face no action over an incident in the tunnel after the derby on 10th December. United boss Jose Mourinho had water and milk thrown at him and City coach Mikel Arteta suffered a cut to the head. pic.twitter.com/cW9HYlrQZx

— BBC North West (@BBCNWT) December 21, 2017

Following the incident, Mourinho dismissed claims his United players were in the wrong. City manager Pep Guardiola also defended his players, although he offered an apology to United.