Former Liverpool manager has nothing but good words for exit bound Jurgen Klopp

Former Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez applauds Jurgen Klopp for the “enormous” job he did at the club

Former Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez praised Jurgen Klopp for his fantastic tenure at the club, rejuvenating the culture of success. Klopp announced that he is leaving Liverpool at the end of the season to protect his mental and physical health.

The 56-year-old has been feeling burnt out and lacks the energy to carry on in the demanding job. Klopp has kept the Reds as a formidable force, rebelling against the might of Manchester City amid their financial breaches.

The German announced his surprise departure earlier to give Liverpool ample amount of time to search for his successor. Numerous managers are under consideration, but Xabi Alonso, a former pupil of Benitez, emerges as a top choice among the Kopites.

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - JANUARY 28: Fans show appreciation to Juergen Klopp, Manager of Liverpool (not pictured) in the stands prior to the Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round match between Liverpool and Norwich City at Anfield on January 28, 2024 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images) — LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – JANUARY 28: Fans show appreciation to Juergen Klopp, Manager of Liverpool (not pictured) in the stands prior to the Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round match between Liverpool and Norwich City at Anfield on January 28, 2024 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

Speaking about Klopp’s departure (h/t Liverpool Echo), current Celta Vigo manager Benitez praised the German’s tenure with the Reds. He said:

“I only have positive words about Klopp, because he is my friend and I have a good relationship with him. He [Klopp] has done and is doing an enormous job. Everything I can say about Klopp and Liverpool is positive. I know something else from inside, and it has more merit than being there. He goes and speaks up, giving the club time to reorganise, which, from another perspective, is also very German, because they do notify in advance, so it is not a shock. Let’s hope Liverpool will do well for now and when another coach comes too. I hope the best for the club.”

Liverpool are currently at the top of the Premier League table and have successfully progressed in each cup competition. Despite the obstacles such as poor refereeing and scheduling as well as an injury crisis, Liverpool continued their winning form.

Klopp has installed a culture of cohesiveness within the club that goes from the senior team to the youth level. Many young players have successfully lived up to the faith shown by their manager, getting ample amount of opportunities.

Jürgen Klopp enjoyed a ‘wonderful afternoon’ at an emotionally charged Anfield, where Norwich City were beaten 5-2 in the fourth round of the #EmiratesFACup
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) January 28, 2024

These young players could play a crucial role when the new manager takes over the club. Liverpool’s squad has the strength and diversity to accommodate the tactics of any manager and continue with the club’s philosophy.

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Nonetheless, the emphasis remains on the current season, as the task at hand is not yet complete. Liverpool’s rivals are closely following the Reds in the Premier League, leaving no margin for error. Klopp deserves a strong sending-off and finishing the season as strongly as it began would be the best farewell gift.