On Friday, Jürgen Klopp acknowledged that Liverpool could have won more championships in his nine years as manager, adding, “We know we could have won more.”
With poignant moments anticipated at Anfield, Klopp, who declared in January that he would be leaving the team at the end of the season, will be in charge of his final Liverpool game on Sunday against Wolves.
During his tenure at the team, the 56-year-old won seven major trophies: the FA Cup, the Premier League, the Champions League, the Super Cup, the Club World Cup, and two Carabao Cups.
In both 2018 and 2022, Klopp’s team advanced to the Champions League final, however they were defeated by Real Madrid both times. Liverpool has placed second in the Premier League behind Manchester City twice. In the 2018–19 season, they accumulated 97 points, yet they were only one point behind City. In 2021–2022, they fell short of Pep Guardiola’s squad by one point once more, ultimately behind City’s total of 93.
I am powerless to alter the fact that we knew we could have won more. We also could have won with less. Although it’s not a pleasant experience, losing by a point is nevertheless an experience. “There is nothing I could have done differently in these circumstances,” he said during a Friday press conference.
“We were capable of winning additional Champions Leagues. It is an incredible accomplishment to be in three finals. It’s true that there’s a considerable probability you won’t win the championship. Real Madrid never fails to come out on top. We gave it another go.
If I felt that I could have accomplished more, I would not be content. I was unable to accomplish more. Had someone else performed more effectively? Maybe. but not me, and that’s alright with me. People will judge it, and most of them will find it acceptable.”
When an injured Liverpool team overcame Chelsea in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium in February, Klopp’s reign came to an end.
Klopp declared, “It was my favorite final we’ve ever played.” “We are aware of how the public views the carabao, but at that precise time, it seemed truly remarkable. It demonstrated the core values of this group.
“Some unique moments can be created by our people. We everyone made something incredibly unique that evening. It was the greatest night of our life, as far as the club was concerned. I adored it. Virgil [van Dijk], the skipper, and the other children’s eyes were very beautiful to watch. It was an amazing night that I will never forget.
The German manager claimed that the week before Sunday’s match against Wolves had been the most “intense” of his life.
“After this final game of the season, there will be a holiday. As usual, nothing unusual. The athletes bid adieu yesterday. Here, we held a barbecue. It’s quite a bit. Of course, I get emotional sometimes. How many shirts I signed is a mystery to me! Everything is interconnected,” he remarked.
“While saying farewell without feeling depressed or heartbroken would indicate that the time was not well spent, saying goodbye is never pleasant. It was a wonderful time. It will not be easy.”
Joël Matip, a defender, and Thiago Alcantara, a midfielder, have both stated that they would be departing Liverpool at the end of the season when their contracts expire.
Joel and Thiago visited my office this week. Joel Matip is the best free transfer you have ever seen. Amazingly witty and a fantastic man. If he wants to continue playing, he must decide. He is exceptional and extremely humble, so whoever signs him is a lucky club, Klopp remarked.
“I wish Thiago’s career had been free of injuries. Among the best I’ve ever seen; they had total control over the field. I’ve already thanked them for everything they’ve done. They were all quite intelligent. They would have moved last year if they weren’t.”