Klopp’s emotional farewell: Last Liverpool match evokes memories

In a club documentary offering a glimpse into his final days at Liverpool, Jurgen Klopp was asked by filmmakers to stand alone on The Kop and look around Anfield. He did it but wasn’t entirely comfortable.

“I love Anfield dearly,” Klopp said on Friday, “but I love it when it’s full.”

This Sunday, Anfield will be packed to the brim as Klopp manages his last game for Liverpool after nearly nine years. It’s likely to be an emotional day for many home fans.

Klopp reignited the dreams of Liverpool supporters. He guided the team to seven major trophies, including a sixth Champions League title and their first English league championship in 30 years. His bond with the city of Liverpool has drawn comparisons to the legendary Bill Shankly. Klopp not only motivated his players with his intense style of football but also showed deep compassion, such as when speaking with families of the 1989 Hillsborough disaster victims.

Speaking before Sunday’s game against Wolverhampton, Klopp paused often to find the right words about a club so close to his heart. “I wouldn’t be happy if I thought I could have done more,” said the 56-year-old German. “I couldn’t. I gave everything.”

This reflection left him with no regrets as he said individual goodbyes to his players on Thursday and had a final barbecue with the squad. He also visited the club’s store workers in Liverpool city center for the last time. Over the past few days, he’s signed countless Liverpool jerseys.

Klopp described the past week as “the most intense of my life.” He acknowledged that saying goodbye is never easy, but it’s less painful when the time spent together was worthwhile. “I had a great time,” he said.

He reminisced about his greatest moments as Liverpool manager. Surprisingly, his favorite game was a 1-1 draw with Manchester City this season, praising Liverpool’s dominant second-half performance against what he considers the best team in the world. His favorite goal was Alisson Becker’s stoppage-time header against West Bromwich Albion. His top assist was Trent Alexander-Arnold’s quick corner that led to Divock Origi’s goal against Barcelona in the 2019 Champions League semifinal. Alisson’s late save against Napoli in the same Champions League campaign was his most memorable save.

Reflecting on these memories, Klopp realized how incredible his journey with Liverpool has been since he arrived as an eccentric figure with a unique, high-energy playing style suited for Liverpool. “I take memories, friendships, and relationships with me forever,” Klopp said. “A decade of your life is massive, and I will not forget a day of it.”

True to form, Klopp addressed current football issues in his final pre-match news conference, expressing his wish for the Premier League to scrap VAR.

By the Premier League’s annual general meeting next month, Klopp will be an observer, no longer actively involved in English football. Yet, his influence and charisma will remain unforgettable. Despite some viewing one league title as a modest return, Klopp and Manchester City’s rivalry set new standards for English football.

Anfield will have a special atmosphere on Sunday, separate from the title race unfolding elsewhere. Klopp has denied documentary-makers access to his final team meeting, uncertain how emotional it might be.

“I hope it won’t feel like a goodbye, but rather a typical football atmosphere,” he said. “We’ll prepare as well and as normally as possible. I never want to disrupt a good game, but this time, I might be the distraction, and I apologize for that.”

Awarded the Freedom of the City of Liverpool in 2022, Klopp left one last message for the city: “I don’t think the club will need my help in the future, but if the city does, I will be there.”