Liverpool’s hopes for FA Cup, Europa League, and even the crucial Europa League have faded in recent weeks. Until early April, there was even speculation that the Reds could achieve a remarkable treble this season.
Despite knocking out the Merseysiders from the FA Cup in March, Manchester United remained strong contenders in both the Europa League and the Premier League, having already secured the Carabao Cup.
However, they encountered a series of nightmare results, facing setbacks against United in the league, Atalanta in the Europa League, and Crystal Palace at home in the Premier League once again.
Liverpool approached the Merseyside Derby on Wednesday night with a keen awareness of the crucial need for three points and an intolerance for further missteps.
Regrettably, they suffered a 2-0 defeat, with Jarrad Branthwaite and Dominic Calvert-Lewin securing the goals, effectively signaling the conclusion of Liverpool’s season.
Back in January, Jurgen Klopp disclosed his impending departure from the club at the season’s end, prompting fans to dream of an illustrious send-off for their revered manager.
Throughout his nine-year tenure, Klopp amassed numerous prestigious titles including the Premier League, the FA Cup, and the Champions League, fostering hopes for a triumphant departure.
However, the reality has fallen short of expectations, casting doubt on the 56-year-old’s decision to announce his exit.
During the Everton vs. Liverpool match aired on Sky Sports, Wayne Rooney, the former Everton and Manchester United striker, engaged in a post-match discussion with Liverpool icon Jamie Carragher, broaching the topic of Klopp’s departure.
During a conversation with Carragher as the ex-defender scrutinised Darwin Nunez’s performance, Rooney remarked:
“Do you not question the timing of it getting released that Klopp’s leaving the club? Because over the last few weeks or the last couple of months, everyone’s saying ‘fairytale ending’ – all stuff like that.
“But the minute it goes wrong, I think you have to look at that timing. I think with Nunez, maybe with Salah, van Dijk as well.
“These players are looking – Klopp’s so popular, even as an Everton fan I really like Jurgen Klopp – with him leaving the club, in their heads they’ll be thinking ‘what does my future hold? Am I still gonna be a Liverpool player? Do I still want to be a Liverpool player?’
“I think that’s something you can look at.”
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