‘This one is different’ – Klopp in major nod to more thrilling Liverpool transfers after signing new contract
Jurgen Klopp says that he had to think more carefully about signing another new Liverpool contract – but that the decision was just as easy as before.
Speculation arose on Thursday morning that the German could extend his stay at Anfield beyond 2024. While he has previously insisted that he wanted to take a break, he recently signalled he could change his mind.
As a result, Mike Gordon – president of Liverpool owners Fenway Sports Group – flew to Liverpool this week for talks.
Gordon was present at the Reds’ 2-0 Champions League semi-final win over Villarreal on Wednesday. He subsequently discussed Klopp’s future with the manager’s agent, Marc Kosicke.
And it did not take long for the deal to go through, amid the incredible feeling around Anfield this season.
Klopp told Liverpool’s official website after signing the new deal: “There are so many words I could use to describe how I am feeling about this news… delighted, humbled, blessed, privileged and excited would be a start.
“There is just so much to love about this place. I knew that before I came here, I got to know it even better after I arrived and now I know it more than ever before.
“Like any healthy relationship, it always has to be a two-way street; you have to be right for each other. The feeling we were absolutely right for each other is what brought me here in the first place and it’s why I’ve extended previously.
“This one is different because of the length of time we have been together. I had to ask myself the question: Is it right for Liverpool that I stay longer?
“Along with my two assistant managers, Pep Lijnders and Pete Krawietz, we came to the conclusion it was a ‘Yes!’”
Klopp has signed a new four-year deal which will take him through to the end of the 2025/26 season.
The new contract comes amid Liverpool‘s quest for an unprecedented quadruple. The win over Villarreal put them in charge of the semi-final, with the Reds now closer to a trip to Paris.
Liverpool are also in the FA Cup final following their Carabao Cup triumph in February. What’s more, they could yet win the Premier League title if Manchester City slip up.
Klopp talks of Liverpool renewal
Klopp has built his success from a host of star signings such as Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk.
He insisted, though, that new sporting director Julian Ward and CEO Billy Hogan are as committed as ever to refreshing the team for the seasons to come.
“There is a freshness about us as a club still and this energises me,” Klopp said.
“For as long as I have been here, our owners have been unbelievably committed and energetic about this club and it is clear that right now this applies to our future as much as I’ve ever known.
“In Billy Hogan and Julian Ward we have leaders throughout the club who are completely focused on renewal and refreshing so we can continue to compete at the very highest level.”
Klopp also talked of the “fresh impetus” Liverpool have added away from the pitch.
The new AXA Training Centre has helped the club’s development. Meanwhile, the Anfield Road End of the stadium is in development which will increase its capacity. The latest work follows a significant project on the Main Stand also funded by FSG.
Klopp concluded that “we are a club that is constantly moving in the right direction.”
Liverpool return to action against Newcastle at St James’ Park on Saturday. The Reds can go top of the Premier League table with a win, ahead of City’s trip to Leeds.
