Liverpool will part ways with Jurgen Klopp after the game against Wolves. The German manager is leaving after nearly nine years to take a break, raising the question of who makes his best XI.
Jürgen Klopp’s first starting XI at Liverpool, for a 1-1 draw against Spurs at White Hart Lane, featured Nathaniel Clyne and Alberto Moreno. On the bench were Ádám Bogdán, Conor Randall, and Jerome Sinclair.
It’s clear that Liverpool have made significant strides since then, thanks to some transformative signings, outstanding coaching, and excellent youth talent identification. The squad Klopp leaves behind for Arne Slot is well-positioned to compete for the Premier League title again.
Newsnow Liverpool has compiled the best XI of the Klopp era at Anfield, and we invite you to share your own selections in the comments section below. Most positions are straightforward to choose…
Goalkeeper
Alisson Becker
This is straightforward: Alisson Becker is the top goalkeeper globally and possibly the greatest in Liverpool’s history. Despite occasional injury frustrations, the Brazilian remains unmatched in his field. He is the clear number-one choice in his position and one of the best acquisitions of the Klopp era. Even at a then-world-record fee, he proved to be a bargain.
Defence
Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk, Joël Matip, Andy Robertson
Once again, there are some straightforward choices here. Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson are the full-backs — among the best the Premier League has ever seen. Virgil van Dijk anchors the defence.
While Ibrahima Konaté shows great potential, Joël Matip edges him out due to his more extensive track record under Klopp, despite injury issues. Joe Gomez, similar to Konaté, needed more consistent fitness to secure a better position. At their peak, he and Van Dijk formed a formidable partnership.
Midfield
Fabinho, Georginio Wijnaldum, Jordan Henderson
The standout holding midfielder of the Klopp era is undoubtedly Fabinho. Until his physical decline, the Brazilian was a dominant force in the midfield, comparable to Rodri of Manchester City.
His impeccable tackling, timing, and underrated passing enabled him to effectively cover the roles of two players. Liverpool’s struggles were evident whenever he was not at his best.
Philippe Coutinho was outstanding in the six months leading up to his transfer to Barcelona, while Alexis Mac Allister has been excellent but hasn’t had enough time under Klopp to make a lasting impact.
Thiago Alcântara could have been a key player if not for his frequent injuries. Curtis Jones, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Harvey Elliott all have the potential to eventually make their mark.
However, the best Liverpool midfield during Klopp’s tenure included Fabinho, Gini Wijnaldum, and Jordan Henderson at their peak. Their achievements surpass those of any other combination so far. This trio was much more than the ‘functional’ label sometimes given to them, demonstrating their ability to compete with the best in Europe.
Attack
Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino, Sadio Mané
Mohamed Salah is an automatic choice for the team. Under Klopp’s management, he has scored over 200 goals, achieving a status that few Liverpool players in history can match. The Egyptian forward will likely be remembered as one of the greatest players to ever wear the Reds’ jersey.
The iconic forward trio of Salah, Roberto Firmino, and Sadio Mané is the best Klopp has ever had. At their peak, Firmino and Mané were equally brilliant, though their excellence did not last as long as Salah’s.
Firmino was the glue that held the attack together, while Salah and Mané surged forward to create decisive moments.
Diogo Jota also merits a mention, although injuries have hampered his impact recently. Cody Gakpo has yet to make a significant mark, and Luis Díaz has not matched Mané’s consistency at his peak. Divock Origi, of course, deserves recognition as well.
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