Jurgen klopp gives promises on how to make changes at Liverpool but says no departure as he hits back at critics
Jurgen Klopp has vowed there will be a summer of change at Anfield, but his exit from Liverpool will not be one of them.
Liverpool take on Wolves in an FA Cup third round replay on Tuesday and the tie has become hugely important after a 3-0 defeat to Brighton – who are waiting for winners in round four – which Klopp described as the worst from his management career.
The German was in the mood to talk yesterday and, in what felt like an important press conference, Klopp defended himself against criticism that he is too loyal to players, insisted his side still listened to his message, but admitted that Liverpool the element of surprise to their game.
This is without doubt one of the most challenging periods of his seven-year reign, but Klopp’s hunger to rebuild the side is evident and he made it clear he will not shy away from shaking up a group that critics believe is this has become stale. Of course, I’ve heard that I’m too loyal,” said Klopp, who is unlikely to make Darwin Nunez a choice at Molineux. “I’ve heard that before, and I don’t hear it. I’m loyal – I think everyone should be loyal – but I’m not too loyal.
“As far as I’m concerned, from what I hear – unless someone tells me (the opposite) – I’m not going. So that means there might come a time when we have to change other things. We’ll see, but that’s for the future, like summer or whatever. Not now. I have space and time to think about it.
We have to play better football now. We can’t play and say, “Okay, these are the problems, but we won’t have them next season.” It’s really long. I can’t promise that tomorrow we will fly, but what I can promise is that we will really fight and everyone can see it.’
It was always going to be a pivotal summer for Liverpool. Klopp has spoken to the owners of Fenway Sports Group about their search for new investment but “he shouldn’t tell you” and there is also a need to hire a new sporting director now that Julian Ward is departing.
There will be a review of his midfield. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Naby Keita leave as their contracts expire; Deals for backers Roberto Firmino and James Milner both expire in June, but given Klopp’s esteem for them, no one would be surprised if they get a 12-month extension.
Jude Bellingham is Liverpool’s main summer transfer target but Klopp will address that in the future and from now on his thoughts are to find a way to take his side to the level they were at when they reached the final of the FA cup won. Capacity. All I want is to fix this situation, that’s all” Klopp said. it is much more than you expected.
“This is also a fact, but nobody cares. Other teams are flying and that’s okay – we were in that position last year. I am responsible for specific things. With all the things you do, I really think you should be on your best behavior and not blame anyone so you don’t blame yourself.
“I hate it (opponents sorted out Liverpool), but I understand. But I also see it as an opportunity. It’s been a long time since we managed to surprise opponents for just being good or anything, for extended periods of time. Imagine we’re playing really well right now? That would be really cool. We will do it.’