Jurgen Klopp Highlights Key Signings That Transformed Liverpool into Title Winners

Jurgen Klopp credits Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Alisson Becker as pivotal in transforming Liverpool into domestic and European champions during his tenure as manager.

As Klopp prepares to bid farewell to Anfield after Sunday’s match against Wolves, he reflects on an extraordinary eight-and-a-half-year journey that saw Liverpool clinch their first English league title since 1989/90 and their sixth European Cup/Champions League with a memorable win over Tottenham Hotspur in Madrid.

Klopp took over from Brendan Rodgers in late 2015 and immediately revitalized a struggling Liverpool side, guiding them back into top-four contention. Key signings soon followed, propelling the team into regular title contenders and formidable challengers to Manchester City’s dominance.

Discussing the Champions League and Premier League triumphs of the 2018/19 and 2019/20 seasons, Klopp told Liverpool’s official website, “When I arrived, we already had a good team. They reached a Europa League final, which was a significant achievement. People often overlook the quality we had back then.”

He continued, “However, to become champions, we needed to evolve. Step by step, we brought in crucial players. Ali [Alisson Becker], Virg [van Dijk], Mo [Salah], Sadio [Mane] before them, Gini Wijnaldum, Andy Robertson, Fabinho, Joel Matip – all incredible players. Each addition helped shape our distinct style of football.”

Klopp emphasized the innovative tactics that set Liverpool apart: “We might not have invented the false nine, but Bobby Firmino perfected it for us. The dynamic roles of Sadio and Mo as forwards, the offensive full-backs, and our high defensive line – these were all parts of our unique approach.”

Acknowledging the criticism and praise that comes with such tactics, Klopp added, “We often heard about our high line when we conceded goals or the midfield not scoring enough. But it was all part of our identity. Our style demanded it, and it led to incredible success.”