Jota reveals why Klopp is so unique; makes Liverpool trophy pledge

Jota Klopp TEAMtalk

Diogo Jota says Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is unlike any coach he has had before, while setting out his long-term goals at Anfield.

Jota has hit the ground running since joining Liverpool in a deal worth around £40m in the summer transfer window. The Portuguese forward has scored seven goals in his new colours already, after only making six starts.

The ex-Wolves star has made an impression in both the Premier League and Champions League – recently scoring a hat-trick against Atalanta in the latter competition.

His form has raised questions of Roberto Firmino’s role in the Liverpool starting lineup, which perhaps emphasises just how good he has been. Firmino has been one of Liverpool’s most important players under Klopp.

The Liverpool boss selected both players in his starting lineup for the draw with Manchester City at the weekend. However, Jota was unable to continue his four-game scoring streak.

It does not take away from his excellent start to life as a Liverpool player, though. Now, he has reflected on his first few months on Merseyside – observing how close Klopp is to his squad.

“He is different from any coach I have ever had, especially in terms of contact,” Jota told TVI in his native Portugal.

“He sent me a text message a few days ago, something that is not very common [to see] in a coach.

“I was at the spa, I wasn’t even expecting it and I got a message from him.

“But even so, he likes to be close to the players, both on and off the field.”

 

Jota wants to add trophies

While Jota has made a fine first impression at Anfield, he wishes fans had been present to witness it.

He added: “When I first scored at Anfield, I was asked what my feeling was and what I said was that [for it] to be perfect, I had to have the stadium full to have an even more special flavour.

“It feels bitter not being able to feel the atmosphere of Anfield Road.”


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Jota has already proven a smart addition to a Liverpool side that had already won the Premier League, Champions League, Super Cup and Club World Cup in recent years.

His move has given him a chance to add to the only two honours he has earned to date – promotion from the Championship with Wolves, and victory in the 2018-19 UEFA Nations League with Portugal.

While he insists he is not thinking too far ahead, he is hoping to pick up some more medals at Liverpool.

He said: “I try not to think about a long future. I came here to do my best, I didn’t aim for anything in particular.

“And when that is the case, there are no disappointments or surprises. I’m in one of the best teams in the world, if not the best, so I have to take advantage of that.

“And playing ahead, if I am focused, I know that I will have many opportunities. Liverpool have great players and I came here to be one more and help and win titles. Especially because I don’t have as many as that.”

READ MORE: Nuno explains why Jota’s ‘amazing’ Liverpool form was a certainty