Back in 2015, Jurgen Klopp was announced as Liverpool’s new manager. Many sensed a new era was on the horizon at Liverpool, and many believed that Klopp would be the man to lead Liverpool into whatever lay ahead.
Two weeks later, I would be at my first game in the ‘Klopp era’ as Liverpool faced Rubin Kazan in the Europa League. There were signs of what Klopp could bring to Anfield with fast-attacking football, but it was clear there were plenty of things that needed changing on and off the pitch to bring Liverpool back to the top of the football mountain.
Klopp summed up the game in his own words as he said in his post match press conference ” It was not a masterclass but it was not the worst day in my life”. Klopp knew the challenge was in front of him, but it wasn’t impossible to complete it.
Fast forward 9 years, I would attend my last game of the Klopp Era against Crystal Palace at Anfield. Sadly, the game ended in defeat, but it didn’t overshadow the emotion I felt being in Anfield for the last time under Jurgen Klopp. From the highest of highs to the soul-crushing lows, nothing could take the feeling of fulfilment Klopp had brought to Liverpool fans all around the world. Therefore, I wouldn’t miss anything to give Jurgen the send of he deserved on the final day of the season.
Even though the game kicked off at 4pm, the streets and roads surrounding the ground were busy from Midday. There was a real buzz ahead of the match, despite it having no real outcome on our season, so many people were excited to give Klopp the send-off he truly deserved after what he has gave us over the years.
As I made my way onto Anfield Road, it felt like we were at Wembley before a cup final. The streets were crowded with fans, head-to-toe in Liverpool clothes, with flags and scarves stretched out all over the street. Many people tried to get the best view, from the nearby buildings. As the team coaches made their way up the street, flares went up all over the street, which made my eyes sting and my nostrils flare, but at the moment it didn’t matter, as all I was concerned about was being there with Liverpool fans, celebrating what Klopp’s success.
After the coach had made its way inside the stadium, it was clear that I wouldn’t be on my own outside the ground to celebrate Klopp’s reign. At the Anfield Road Hotel, it almost seemed like a party with all the people who made their way inside. There were stores selling merchandise, street vendors and at the front of the building, a Bavarian Oompah band was playing Liverpool chants from Klopp’s tenure.
After finding a seat and settling down with a cold pint in the hot spring heat, it was time to watch Klopp’s last game as the Liverpool manager. There wasn’t too much I remember from the game, as I was still in awe at how many people had also turned up outside the ground to watch The Reds play under Klopp for one final time. With twenty minutes to go, the pub began singing the songs we have all been singing for the best part of nine years and as we were coming to the conclusion of Klopp’s time, 100’s of Liverpool fans began singing ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’.
That moment summarised Klopp’s legacy at Liverpool. He arrived at a club that was in turmoil, but he allowed us to enjoy football once more. He allowed us to believe in things that we previously thought were impossible. He brought a fresh life to Liverpool, full of joy and happiness and that’s exactly what I saw, sitting there in the Spring Heat on that Sunday evening. As Liverpool supporters weren’t sad to see Klopp leaving, but happy they were able to share the good times with him.
So Jurgen, thank you for the ride you have delievered me and every other Liverpool fan, and thank you for changing me from a doubter to a believer.
Final Whistle 