In a stunning announcement that rocked the football world, Jurgen Klopp revealed that he will leave Liverpool at the end of the season, citing a lack of energy as the main reason for his departure.
The charismatic German, who transformed Liverpool into a dominant force in England and Europe, said he made the decision in November and informed the club of his intention to step down.
Klopp, who joined Liverpool in 2015 and led them to their first league title in 30 years, as well as the Champions League, the Super Cup and the Club World Cup, said he loved everything about the club, the city and the fans, but felt he could not continue to do the job at the highest level.
“I am running out of energy. I have no problem now, obviously, I knew it already for longer that I will have to announce it at one point, but I am absolutely fine now. I know that I cannot do the job again and again and again and again,” he said.
Klopp’s announcement came as a shock to many, as Liverpool are currently top of the Premier League and in contention for four trophies this season. They reached the Carabao Cup final on Wednesday after beating Fulham.
However, Klopp admitted that last season was “super-difficult” for him and the team, as they failed to win any major silverware and faced criticism from some quarters. He said he was determined to help the team get back on track, and was proud of their achievements and potential.
“It is not what I want to [do], it is just what I think is 100%,” he said.
Klopp will leave Liverpool as one of their greatest ever managers, having won six trophies and reached three more finals in his six-and-a-half year spell. He will also be remembered for his passion, his charisma and his connection with the fans.
He will be joined by his trusted assistants Pepijn Lijnders and Peter Krawietz, as well as elite development coach Vitor Matos, who will also leave the club at the end of the season.