Jurgen Klopp: The Big Impact of “Normal One” on Liverpool

On May 17, 2024, Liverpool FV presented a heartfelt farewell to Jurgen Klopp, a manager who has profoundly influenced both the club and the city over the past eight and a half years. Klopp’s tenure at Liverpool has been a rollercoaster of triumphs and challenges, leaving an enduring legacy. Whoever comes next to take the “Liverpool job” will have to reach the enormous benchmark set by Jurgen. The tears from Pep Guardiola, Man City coach, on the last day of the Premier League season showed the immense respect that he was receiving from his fellow coaches.

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Before his successful spell at Reds, he had made his mark at Borussia Dortmund, winning two Bundesliga titles. His humility and relatability endeared him to the club’s fans from the outset. At his first press conference he set a tone of authenticity and he became the brightest Liverpool star.

I am the Normal One

Jurgen Klopp

My admiration for Klopp

Even though I am a fan of Guardiola, I have immense admiration for Klopp’s work. I have followed his career closely, starting from his days at Borussia Dortmund, where his high-energy, “heavy metal” style of football caught my attention. His ability to turn Dortmund into a formidable force, winning two Bundesliga titles and reaching a Champions League final, was nothing short of inspirational. When he moved to Liverpool, I continued to follow his journey, and his impact on the club and its supporters has been incredible.

As a coach, I have learned so much from watching Klopp’s Liverpool. His passion, tactical brilliance, and genuine connection with the fans have left a lasting impression on me. I’ve adopted his intense pressing style, the so called “Gegenpressing” and his emphasis on team unity, which has made me a better coach. His ability to inspire and galvanize a team, turning doubters into believers, has been a masterclass in leadership. Klopp’s tenure at Liverpool has been nothing short of extraordinary, and he has earned my deepest respect and appreciation.

A Realist’s Dream

Klopp’s hopes for a victorious goodbye were dashed following a 2-0 loss to Everton, a defeat that effectively ended Liverpool’s title chase. Klopp, ever pragmatic despite his romantic outlook, knew the reality. Manchester City capitalized on this setback, further securing their lead. Rather than complaining on the defeat, he found comfort in The Freshfield, a local pub, showcasing his unique bond with team’s supporters.

Transforming Liverpool

Scouted in detail by then-sporting director Michael Edwards, Klopp cut short his sabbatical to take on the challenge at Anfield. Klopp managed to resurrect Liverpool from its ashes and restore the club to its former glory. In his first-ever interview, he famously said, “Turn doubters into believers.” He immediately achieved something that previous managers had attempted for decades: unifying all fans toward a common goal—helping the club reclaim what rightfully belongs to it.

His journey at the team began in October 2015. During his nearly nine-year tenure, he revitalized the club, securing every major trophy except the Europa League. His leadership ended a 30-year wait for a Premier League title in the 2019-20 season, reigniting the club’s pride and competitive spirit. His final match against Wolves at Anfield has seen ticket prices skyrocket, underscoring his significant impact.

A Cultural Match

Klopp’s alignment with Liverpool’s values extended beyond football. He opposed the club’s attempt to join the breakaway Super League, fought against high ticket prices, and supported fans during controversies, such as the chaos at the 2022 Champions League final in Paris. His support for fan rights and community involvement showcased his deep understanding of Liverpool’s ethos.

Inspirational Leadership

Klopp’s leadership was characterized by instilling belief and tenacity. Players like Jordan Henderson, Mo Salah, Virgil Van Dijk, Trent Alexander Arnold, Curtis Jones, and other youngsters coming from the youth academy, flourished under his guidance. His innovative motivational methods, such as sessions with high-pressing and high-intensity exercises, reflected his unique approach to building resilience and unity within the squad. His “heavy metal” style of play drew millions of football fans to follow the team, even if they were not supporters of the club.

Historic Triumphs

Jurgen Klopp’s tenure at Liverpool has been marked by a series of historic successes that have etched his name into the club’s folklore. His most notable achievement came in the 2019-20 season when he led the team to their first Premier League title in 30 years. This long-awaited triumph was a culmination of Klopp’s relentless pursuit of excellence, transforming the club into a dominant force in English football.

• Champions League Glory: Another crowning achievement was winning the UEFA Champions League in the 2018-19 season. After a heart-wrenching defeat in the final against Real Madrid the previous year, Liverpool bounced back with determination. The 2-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in Madrid not only secured Klopp his first major trophy with the Reds but also reaffirmed the club’s status on the European stage.
• The Miracle of Anfield: One of the most unforgettable nights under Klopp’s management was the Champions League semifinal second leg against Barcelona in May 2019. Liverpool, lost the first leg by 3-0 and they needed a miracle at Anfield to overturn the defeat. What followed was one of the greatest comebacks in football history. Goals from Divock Origi and Georginio Wijnaldum, combined with a relentless team performance, resulted in a 4-0 victory that sent Liverpool to the final. This match exemplified Klopp’s ability to inspire his team to achieve the seemingly impossible.
• Premier League Domination: The 2019-20 Premier League season was a showcase of club’s dominance. The team won 32 of their 38 matches, finishing with a club-record 99 points, 18 points clear of second-placed Manchester City, turning them into the best Premier League team of the season. Key victories, such as the 3-1 win against Manchester City at Anfield and a 5-3 thriller against Chelsea, highlighted their attacking prowess and resilience. The title was clinched with seven games to spare, a testament to their consistency and excellence throughout the season.
• Winning the Club World Cup: In December 2019, he led Liverpool to their first FIFA Club World Cup title. The tournament in Qatar saw his team facing tough opposition, but they emerged victorious with a 1-0 win against Flamengo in the final. Roberto Firmino’s extra-time goal secured the trophy, adding another accolade to Klopp’s impressive collection.
• The FA Cup and Carabao Cup Victories: In the 2021-22 season, he guided Liverpool to victories in both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup. These triumphs underscored his ability to lead the team to success across multiple competitions. The FA Cup win, in particular, was notable for being Liverpool’s first since 2006, ending a 16-year wait for the prestigious trophy.

Enduring Legacy

Klopp’s time at Liverpool is a tale of success and near-misses. Despite competing during Manchester City’s dominant era, his achievements—Champions League glory, a Premier League title, and multiple domestic and international trophies—cement his legacy. More importantly, he restored Liverpool’s status as a footballing powerhouse and created unforgettable memories for fans.

What They Think When You Leave

As Jurgen prepares to leave Anfield for the final time, the sentiment among Liverpool fans is clear. He has been more than just a manager; he has been a symbol of hope, unity, and resilience. Klopp’s tenure has given a new generation of fans their own glorious stories to tell, just as previous generations spoke of past triumphs.

Klopp’s legacy at Liverpool is one of transformation, unity, and unprecedented success. His departure marks the end of an era, but his impact will resonate for years to come.

It’s not so important what people think when you come in; it’s what people think when you leave

Jurgen Klopp

Jurgen leaves Liverpool with the admiration and gratitude of an entire city.

FAQ: Jurgen Klopp’s Legacy at Liverpool

• When did Klopp become the manager of Liverpool?

Jurgen became the manager of Liverpool in October 2015.

• What were Klopp’s most significant achievements with Liverpool?

Klopp’s most significant achievements include winning the Premier League in the 2019-20 season, the UEFA Champions League in the 2018-19 season, the FIFA Club World Cup in 2019, the UEFA Super Cup in 2019, and both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup in the 2021-22 season.

• What was Klopp’s style of play?

Klopp’s style of play, often referred to as “heavy metal football” is characterized by high intensity, pressing, and fast-paced attacking play.

• What is Klopp’s most memorable match as Liverpool’s manager?

One of Klopp’s most memorable matches was the Champions League semifinal second leg against Barcelona in May 2019, where Liverpool overturned a 3-0 first-leg deficit by winning 4-0 at Anfield.

• Why is Klopp so revered by Liverpool fans?

Jurgen is revered for not only his on-field success but also his connection with the fans and the city of Liverpool. He has stood by supporters on numerous issues, fostered a sense of unity, and revitalized the club’s spirit and fortunes.

• How did Klopp impact Liverpool’s players?

Under him, many players rose to world-class status, including Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, Sadio Mane, and Alisson Becker. He also promoted young talents like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Curtis Jones, demonstrating his commitment to player development.

• How did Klopp contribute to the Liverpool community?

Klopp actively engaged with the Liverpool community, supporting various causes, speaking out on important issues, and showing solidarity with fans on matters like ticket prices and the Hillsborough disaster.

• What was Klopp’s reaction to Liverpool’s failed attempt to win multiple Premier League titles?

Despite narrowly missing out on additional Premier League titles due to the fierce competition from Manchester City, Klopp focused on the successes and the remarkable transformation he achieved at Liverpool.

• Why did Klopp reject an offer from Manchester United before joining Liverpool?

He rejected Manchester United’s offer because he was unimpressed with the corporate pitch and felt more aligned with Liverpool’s vision and values.

• How did Klopp’s arrival change Liverpool’s trajectory?

He immediately injected energy, optimism, and a new tactical approach, leading Liverpool to numerous trophies and restoring the club’s status among the elite in European football.

• What did Klopp say in his first press conference as Liverpool manager?

In his first press conference, Klopp described himself as “the normal one” and expressed his intention to turn “doubters into believers.”

• How will Klopp be remembered when he leaves Liverpool?

He will be remembered for his transformative impact on the club, his tactical genius, his bond with the fans, and the numerous trophies he brought to Liverpool, leaving a legacy of success and inspiration.