Klopp says he’s ‘gutted’ as key man leaves Liverpool

Posted by

Jurgen Klopp is upset that Pep Lijnders has decided to take the permanent manager’s position at NEC Nijmegen, therefore leaving Liverpool.

The Dutch coach has been highly regarded by everyone at the club, but is now departing having arrived from Porto in 2015.

Klopp told the club’s website: ‘It’s such a strange mix of emotions talking about Pep leaving us.

‘Firstly, I am gutted to be losing such a valuable member of our coaching team and such a brilliant person from our group.

‘But that is tempered by the fact I am very excited for him to have this opportunity and as much as we would have loved for him to remain with us, we cannot stand in his way for what is a fantastic opportunity.

‘There will be no greater supporter of NEC Nijmegen in Liverpool than me and I know this is the very start of a long journey for Pep – one where he will undoubtedly become a success.’

Like Klopp, we wish Pep all the success in the world at his new club.

At 34, he has a long future in the game. Who knows – perhaps one day he’ll take charge of Liverpool!

Lijnders’ main legacy at Anfield will be the manner in which he’s helped the youngsters integrate into the first-team from the youth sides.

The likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Joe Gomez have become regulars during his tenure, while there is hope Ben Woodburn will one day follow them.

 

More Stories Jürgen Klopp Pep ljinders