Jurgen Klopp’s introductory press-conference was filled with countless soundbites, but arguably none that will embed themselves in Liverpool canon quite like the ‘Normal One’ quote.
Now, t-shirts embezzled with an image of our new German boss alongside his catchy new nickname are on sale, but according to an interview Klopp gave with Bild – he really never meant to say it.
“I was relieved after the press conference,” Klopp said. “I have talked a lot of nonsense in my life – but not in English!
“I had not planned [the ‘Normal One’ quip]. I was asked and it came out. Sometimes it’s better to hold your mouth!
“I have not read a newspaper since the press conference, but I’ve heard they’re already making t-shirts [with my words].”
The quote sent football fans into a spiral as it was both reminiscent and opposite of Jose Mourinho’s famous ‘Special One’ self titling in 2004. Of course, the journalist who asked Klopp the question wanted a quote to fill headlines, which ‘The Normal One’ of course did – but for us – it was one of the least interesting parts of the press-conference.
We prefer to focus on his plea for fans to believe, and his declaration that he expects a title within four years.
The 48-year-old is taking his first Liverpool training session this Monday ahead of next weekend’s Premier League clash with Tottenham, but will only see a large number of first-team players towards the end of the week due to the international break.