Jurgen Klopp’s departure from Anfield on Sunday marked the end of an era.
The German manager who took Liverpool to the top of English and European football left a deep legacy with the city and its fans.
Ever since Klopp announced his decision to step down at the end of the season in January, he has suffered heavy losses on Merseyside. The sentiment represents a remarkable turnaround under Klopp, recalling the impact of Bill Shankly decades ago.
When Klopp took over in October 2015, he modestly described himself as an “ordinary man”, a stark contrast to his “special” status at Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea. However, Klopp’s tenure has proved anything but typical. He has became only Liverpool manager to win Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, League Cup, Club World Cup and Community Shield.
Before arriving in England, Klopp made a name for himself by leading Borussia Dortmund to back-to-back Bundesliga titles, defeating reigning Bayern Munich. However, doubts remain over his ability to revive a Liverpool team that has been down for years.
After finishing 10th with Liverpool and without a league title in 25 years, Klopp quickly won over a passionate fan base with his charisma, personality and coaching skills. “It’s a very different club. I don’t trust them, I remind them that when you trust, it helps,” Klopp said earlier this month. “Everyone is ready to push the train. We’ve been doing it for eight and a half years.”
Liverpool’s history is marked by triumphs and tragedies, most notably the 1989 Hillsborough disaster that left 97 fans dead. Former Liverpool captain and manager Graeme Souness hailed Klopp as “a great communicator, visionary and pack leader”, citing a deep connection to the club’s emotional history.
Klopp’s early years were marred by defeats in the League Cup, Europa League and Champions League final. Liverpool’s record 97 points in the 2018-19 season was not enough for Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City to win the Premier League title. However, a few weeks later, Liverpool beat Tottenham in Madrid to win the Champions League.
Klopp’s side witnessed one of the greatest nights at Anfield as they beat Barcelona’s Lionel Messi 4-0. The long-awaited Premier League title has finally arrived in 2020, despite being postponed due to the pandemic.
The COVID season has been particularly difficult for Klopp, who was unable to attend his mother’s funeral due to travel restrictions. Despite this challenge, Liverpool won the League Cup and the FA Cup in 2022, edging closer to an unprecedented quadruple.
In the 2022-23 season, Klopp changed the squad and youth and suffered four setbacks. However, the team’s form has been troubling and Klopp says he is running on empty. “It’s a win-win situation from day one. I loved every second of it.” “The responsibility and love that I’ve developed over the years was a big part of my decision, so I’m very good and at peace with that decision.”
Although Liverpool’s season ended in disappointment that included exits from the FA Cup and the Europa League, Klopp’s legacy lives on. His place in the hearts of the Liverpool faithful was secure when he left Anfield after the last game against Wolves.
