Jurgen Klopp changed football….. for the better.
Just like Arsenal’s Arsene Wenger who previously raised professional British football performance standards, Klopp also changed British football, with something extra.
Love.
Yes, love, warmth, humanity, Jurgen Klopp’s smile lit up football stadia, TV screens and homes all over the world.
He started walking onto the pitch after games and hugging his players. He shook hands, and often hugged, opposition players, coaches and managers.
His interviews were special. Always with a smile and an interesting comment even during tough times.
He was extremely successful too. The German spent 9 years at the club, winning 8 major trophies, most notably their first league title since 1990.
Klopp’s time at Liverpool came to an end last weekend, signing off with a 2.0 win against Wolves at Anfield.
It was an emotional day for all involved and he was given an incredible send-off by the club and fans.
Jurgen Klopp brought something special to Liverpool
Something that they’d missed for years. Passion, intensity, humour, a manager who understands, the players, the fans, the community of Liverpool (both red and blue) and beyond. His big smile will live long in the memories of red scousers. See the power of a smile.
“If only the world…
had leaders who had an ounce of Klopp’s inspirational integrity, authenticity, credibility, transparency, honesty, compassion, passion, spirit and humility anchored by a true sense of place, time and legacy!” Tim March, TMC Consulting & Football Coach.
Upon his departure, Klopp wrote an open letter to the fans which (see below). You will rarely see anything quite like this. It’s full of love and the last words are: ‘Thank you love.’ Extraordinary really. Read on.
Farewell Jurgen Klopp.
Thanks to Cian Smith for this story.
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HE was the special one.
nice one Pat – he really was the special one indeed.
Very special! As always Paul .. on the button!
Thx Loretto. We wish him well where ever he goes and whatever he does.
Great stuff from the German Scouser! A leader and gent. A rare combination. He’ll be missed even by this Man U fan!
I would think almost all managers will miss him. I know Sir Alex used to invite oppostion managers to his office to share a bottle of really nice wine. I wonder do Man United managers (or any managers) still do this? I imagine Klopp would make great company. I wonder did Klopp invite others for a drink after a match?
Great story Paul & Cian. I don’t know enough about the tactical side of the game to comment on what he brought there but the way that he has engaged with those he depends upon is a lesson for us all. His love for the fans & is players is undeniable & absolute. Impressive guy & a loss to English football.
Yes a great loss to English football David.
A man of the people….smashes that old trope that the German people are not ” emotional “…stoic etc….a loving , caring man….a lasting presence and history
Yes ‘ a loving caring man’ – that he was. He introduced and shared love . What a compliment to anyone Joe.
A true leader leads his team by example and they will follow, which is why Jurgen Klopp will never walk alone. It looked like the happier more spontaneous outpouring of joy at last Sundays post match party was in Anfield not the Etihad. Success is not always measured in points won or goals scored. Great post Paul.
Interesting observation Philip more joy in Liverpool than Man City celebrations. Success is measured by other criteria ‘For when the one great score keeper, comes to write against your name. It’s not whether you won or lost, It’s how you played the game’ . I’ve added a link to this beautiful poem (and the 14 year conversation it has generated) at the end of the post (along with links to other relevant articles.
Klopp has been great for the game. He was visceral in every moment of each game with Liverpool. Love them or hate ’em, they played as 12 men. He has re-energised the club and brings a whole new meaning to the anthemic YWNWA. A titan amongst managers and big boots to fill. Dave S, forever Arsenal
Great to see an Arsenal fan acknowledging the great Liverpool manager. Yes Dave, he was the 12th man!
In a game which is becoming more corporate every season, Klopp brought humanity, heart and a smile as wide as the Mersey tunnel. Picked up a mid table team and turned them into champs, should have won more but I’m sure if you asked many Liverpool fans would they have traded a few years of Klopp for a few more shiny winners medals and the answer would be clear, Klopp all day !
Yes James he brought something more valuable than lots of trophies. He brought fun, compassion, kindness as well as an appreciation that there are far bigger problems and opportunities in the world than just your football team winning – yet he was so passionate about it too. Check out the verse about what’s more important than winning (I’ve just adding it to the list of additional blog posts at the end of post.
A wonderful story of love, humanity, comradeship and the enjoyment given to millions by sport. Jurgen’s smile and comments brought joy to countless people fans and non fans alike. We need more leaders in sport like Jurgen he will be sadly missed.
The power of a smile – I totally agree, Martin.
Trent’s emotional thank you to Klopp https://youtu.be/EFsxDv7KJCk?si=xpHnkMklNN7UTM2v