Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is leaving Anfield after nine remarkable years, departing with a parting shot at Arsenal.
During his tenure, the German not only fulfilled his promise of winning the league but also established an era that will be fondly remembered.
Klopp has a deep understanding of building successful teams. For much of his reign, Liverpool were nearly unbeatable, setting numerous records along the way. Fans will be pleased that this success was achieved without excessive spending or unethical practices.
Under Klopp, Liverpool embraced a long-term vision and pursued glory in the right way. Despite falling short at times, the team never compromised the rules or sought unfair advantages. The Reds’ successes under Klopp were genuinely earned.
Arsenal might want to take note of this. Mikel Arteta talks a big game and has built a strong team in North London. However, despite their good football, the Gunners are not above seeking an unfair advantage.
This was evident in the recent North London Derby when defender Ben Davies attempted to unsettle Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, even trying to unstrap his gloves. Arsenal won the match and now head into the final day with hopes of outpacing Manchester City for the title.
In an interview with The Redmen on YouTube, Klopp emphasised the importance of letting football speak for itself.
He prefers winning through hard work on the field rather than seeking unfair advantages, a principle that echoes the ethos of Liverpool’s great teams of the past.
“We didn’t waste time, we didn’t invent new cheeky things for set pieces. Getting rid of gloves or whatever and these kind of things. We didn’t do that.
“We just tried to fight harder than other teams. It was an incredible time.”
While winning is crucial in football, the journey to victory is equally significant. Teams like Manchester City boast impressive silverware, but the 115 charges against them tarnish their achievements, preventing them from earning the respect their success might otherwise warrant.
In football, as in love and war, all is fair. Klopp has not only adhered to the principles of the beautiful game but has also proven that his ideals can lead to success.
Arteta’s relatively empty trophy cabinet highlights this point. The Liverpool teams under Klopp were among the best in England’s history, and despite employing similar tactics, Arteta’s team has a long way to go to match Liverpool’s achievements.
Arsenal aspires to replace Liverpool as Manchester City’s main rivals, and they are making significant strides. However, unless they ultimately triumph, any dubious tactics will have been in vain.
Could Liverpool have won more by employing similar methods over the past nine years? Perhaps. But the club’s foundation is built on integrity, and Klopp’s adherence to these principles has led to success within the rules. This truly means more.
In other Liverpool news, “A living legend” – Fabrizio Romano Pays Tribute to Jurgen Klopp Ahead of Liverpool Farewell