Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is to step down from the role at the end of the season. He said he is “running out of energy.”
Klopp took charge in October 2015 and was contracted until 2026. He has been instrumental in Liverpool’s recent successes. This includes the 2019 Champions League win and the 2019–20 Premier League title.
The 56-year-old manager disclosed that he had already informed the club of his decision back in November.
“I can understand that it’s a shock for a lot of people in this moment when you hear it for the first time. But I can explain it—or at least try to explain it.
“Although my love extends to every aspect of this club—the city, the supporters, the team, and the staff—the fact that I am making his decision shows you that I am convinced it is the one I have to take.”.
“It is that I am, how can I say it, running out of energy. I have no problem now. I knew for longer that I would have to announce it at some point, but I am fine now. I know that I cannot do the job again and again and again and again.”
He added: “If you ask me now if I will ever manage again, I would say no. But you don’t know, obviously, as I’ve never had this situation. But I do know I will definitely never manage a different club in England than Liverpool. It is impossible.
“I will find something else to do. But I will not manage a club or country for at least a year.”
Klopp made an emotional statement. He said he owed Liverpool supporters an explanation for why he was stepping back now. He said it was a hard decision but also felt “relief” when he made it. He said it’s the right moment for him to try a “normal life” and see if he misses management.
A message to Liverpool supporters from Jürgen Klopp. pic.twitter.com/l7rtmxgOzt
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) January 26, 2024
When we sat there together, talking about potential signings and the next summer camp,. We also considered whether we could go wherever. Then the thought came up, “I am not sure I am here then anymore.”” That surprised me. I started thinking about it.
Pepijn Lijnders and Peter Krawietz, Liverpool’s assistant managers, and elite development coach Vitor Matos will also leave with Klopp. Sporting director Jorg Schmadtke will leave at the end of the January transfer window.
Despite Klopp’s impending departure, he urged the team to maximize their efforts for the rest of the season. Liverpool is currently at the top of the Premier League. They are in the EFL Cup final and progressing in the FA Cup and Europa League.
🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆⏳
There's only one more trophy Jürgen Klopp needs to lift…#UEL pic.twitter.com/MSvXGlfIdx
— Squawka (@Squawka) January 26, 2024
Fenway Sports Group, Liverpool’s owners, expressed deep appreciation for Klopp’s contributions. They acknowledged the profound impact he has had on the club. Liverpool’s president, Mike Gordon, expressed sadness at Klopp’s departure. He affirmed their respect for his decision.
Preparations for finding Klopp’s successor are likely underway. Former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso is an early favorite. Other potential candidates include Julian Nagelsmann, the head coach of Germany. Also, Roberto de Zerbi of Bayer Leverkusen and Ange Postecoglou of Tottenham. Klopp, for his part, asserted that he will never manage a different club in England than Liverpool.
The transition to a new era for Liverpool is imminent. Klopp bids farewell. The club and its supporters brace for the next chapter in their storied history.