Jürgen Klopp Bids Emotional Farewell to Liverpool Fans, Welcomes New Manager Arne Slot

Jürgen Klopp bid an emotional farewell to Liverpool supporters, concluding his remarkable 8½-year tenure with a 2-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at Anfield. Goals from Alexis Mac Allister and Jarell Quansah sealed Klopp’s 305th win in 491 games as Liverpool’s manager. In a heartfelt address, Klopp led the fans in chanting the name of his successor, Arne Slot, who will take over as Liverpool’s manager next season.

“The new manager, I want you to sing his name. Arne Slot, na na na na na! When the next season starts, go full throttle into it with the new manager. When you start, you keep believing. Don’t stop believing,” Klopp told the Liverpool faithful, ensuring a warm welcome for Slot.

Reflecting on his time at Liverpool, Klopp noted the emotional impact of the farewell, acknowledging the tears among fans and himself. “I saw a lot of people crying, same to me too, but change is good. If you go with the right attitude, everything will be fine,” he said. Klopp expressed deep gratitude for his experiences and being part of Liverpool’s storied history. “There has been such a long lead-up to this day and it was really intense. I had my bad moments as well but, thank God, not today. I’m just thankful for what happens. When you are in it, you forget sometimes how great it is. You take it for granted. Now I stand here, I’m just so happy I’m a part of the club’s history. It’s wonderful.”

Under Klopp’s leadership, Liverpool reestablished themselves at the top of English football, winning every major honour except the Europa League. The pinnacle was the 2019-20 Premier League title, ending a 30-year wait to be champions of England. Klopp’s decision to step down, announced in January, set the stage for an emotional build-up to his final game. “I’m surprised I’m not already in pieces. I’m so happy, I can’t believe it. The atmosphere, the game, being part of this family, how we celebrate at this stadium. Thanks so much,” he remarked, reflecting on the overwhelming emotions of the moment.

Addressing the fans, Klopp emphasized the importance of continued belief and support for the team. “It doesn’t feel like an end, just feels like a start. I saw a team full of creativity, desire. Since a few weeks I have had too much attention, but in this time I realised a lot of things. People told me I turned you from doubter to believer, that’s not true. Believing is what you do yourself, you did it. Nobody tells you to stop believing, this club is in a better moment than for a long time.” He also shared his faith in the club’s future and addressed concerns about spending and success. “We decide if we’re worried or excited. We decide if you believe or don’t believe, trust or don’t trust. Since today I am one of you and I believe in you. The other clubs, with the most money and the best managers, they win it. We didn’t have the best manager and never had the best team but for a while we played the best football and I love that. We are a rock-solid club and don’t overspend. People say, ‘You didn’t spend enough.’ What the heck do you want? I just understand this from the Liverpool way.”

Meanwhile, Feyenoord coach Arne Slot will be stepping in as Liverpool’s new manager. He confirmed his appointment on Friday before leading Feyenoord to a 4-0 victory in his final match. Slot was greeted with banners and chants of his name from Feyenoord fans, who showed their appreciation for his leadership. Under Slot’s guidance, Feyenoord finished second in the Dutch league standings, having won the championship in the 2022-23 season.

As Liverpool looks forward to a new chapter under Arne Slot, the legacy of Jürgen Klopp’s tenure remains a testament to his transformative impact on the club.