Juergen Klopp, Liverpool’s esteemed manager, reiterated his decision to leave the team at the end of the season despite a resounding 4-2 victory over Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday, marking his penultimate game at Anfield, according to Reuters.
Since announcing his departure in January, Klopp has faced persistent questions about whether successful results might sway him to reconsider staying for another year. However, after the emphatic win against Tottenham, Klopp maintained his stance.
“It seems to be really strange what I did, nobody really understands it, I tried to explain it,” Klopp stated, referring to his departure announcement. “I didn’t say what I said because I was not happy with the atmosphere in the stadium or with the way we played football. I think when I spoke about it, we played exceptional football, so that was not the difference. Other reasons. So no, that didn’t influence that decision.”
The victory against Tottenham was a much-needed boost for Liverpool, who had struggled in previous league games, denting their title challenge. Despite their slim chances of clinching the title, Klopp’s men remain mathematically in contention, trailing leaders Arsenal by five points with two games remaining.
Reflecting on his time at Liverpool, Klopp emphasized the significance of belief within the club. “This is a very, very special club,” he expressed. “I didn’t make them believe, I reminded them that it helps when you believe, that’s what I think. Everybody was ready to push the train. And that’s what we did for eight and a half years.”
However, Klopp acknowledged the challenges of managing Liverpool, particularly the scrutiny from the outside world. “To coach the team, grow together as a unit, I love that part,” he said. “But what is really hard, the outside world is really hard. I’m not an outside person.”
As Klopp approaches his final days at Liverpool, his departure marks the end of an era for the club. Liverpool’s next game is against Aston Villa on May 13, followed by Klopp’s farewell match at Anfield against Wolverhampton Wanderers on May 19.
