- Klopp cites waning energy levels as reason behind departure
- Liverpool strongly fancied to end Klopp’s spell with silverware
- Alonso favourite to replace Klopp
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Klopp announces summer departure from Anfield
Jurgen Klopp has announced his departure from Liverpool at the end of the season. The 56-year-old manager shared his decision via a video released on Liverpool’s social media channels, disclosing that he had informed the club of his intentions back in November.
“I will not manage a club or a country at least for a year, that’s not possible, I cannot do that and I don’t want to,” Klopp explained in an interview with club media, shedding light on his need for a hiatus from coaching duties.
Since his arrival at Liverpool in 2015, Klopp has etched his name in the annals of the club’s history, securing prestigious titles including the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, and League Cup. His contract extension in 2022, initially scheduled to conclude in June 2026, affirmed his commitment to the Merseyside club.
Expressing his deep affection for Liverpool, Klopp elucidated, “I love absolutely everything about this club, I love everything about the city, I love everything about our supporters, I love the team, I love the staff. But that I still take this decision shows you that I am convinced it is the one I have to take.”
Klopp’s decision to step away stems from a recognition of his waning energy levels. Despite the profound bond he shares with the club, he acknowledges the necessity of prioritising his well-being and acknowledges the truth of his current state.
“As I am absolutely fine now, I know that I cannot do the job again and again and again and again,” Klopp affirmed, signifying the weight of his decision. His departure marks the end of an era filled with triumphs and cherished memories, leaving an enduring legacy at Liverpool Football Club.
As the club prepares for a new chapter, the search for Klopp’s successor will undoubtedly captivate fans worldwide, as they anticipate the individual who will inherit the mantle of leadership and seek to uphold the standards set by the esteemed German manager.
Betting Implications
Bettors will have to monitor how the decision will affect LIverpool, who are currently fighting on four fronts, for the rest of this season. Many feel that the players and staff will be determined to end Klopp’s time at the club on a high note. At the time of writing bet365 have LIverpool priced as 4/9 favourites to win the EFL Cup, 9/4 favourites to win the Europa League, 4/1 second favourites to win the FA Cup and 5/2 second favourites to win the Premier League. Thinking longer term, punters need to look at how the change will affect the club ahead of next season when looking at picking early outright selections for the 2024/25 season.
As far as Klopp’s successor is concerned, the early favourite is former Liverpool and Real Madrid midfielder Xavi Alonso, who is currently in charge of Bundesliga leaders Bayer Leverkusen. At the time of writing, BetVictor have Alonso priced at 1/2, ahead of Brighton and Hove Albion boss Roberto de Zerbi, who is priced at 6/1.
Check out the best betting sites in the UK and the best football and Premier League bookies with Betting.com.