Jurgen Klopp: The man, the legend, the icon
Jurgen Klopp has been the most influential figure in English football ever since he set foot at Anfield in 2015. Klopp took charge of a club with a rich history, but one which was losing the respect of its peers. In three years, Klopp has transformed Liverpool into one of the most formidable forces in all of Europe. Here's more about the man.
Mainz: The club where it all started
Klopp played as a defender for the German club Mainz and scored 52 goals for them, before becoming their manager. Serving as their gaffer for seven years, Klopp helped them qualify for Bundesliga for the first time in the club's history. Klopp bid farewell to Mainz in 2008 and signed on with Dortmund, where he finally received worldwide attention.
Klopp at Dortmund: Building icons of the future
Klopp was signed by Dortmund to build a club which would create heroes of the game, instead of purchasing them. In his first season, Klopp guided Dortmund to a victory in the German Super Cup against Bayern Munich. Klopp then won the Bundesliga consecutively for two years (2010-11 and 2011-12), shaking up Bayern's dominance. He also lead them to the 2013 Champions League final.
Klopp at Liverpool: The maestro perfecting his art
Klopp has created history at Liverpool, by making this side the only in Liverpudlian history to have the longest-running winning streak at the start of the season. But what he has achieved at Liverpool is really important- he has built stars of today, who are willing to fight under him and not change ships. Salah, Firmino, and Mane have embodied Klopp's passion.
Klopp needs the ultimate victory- the elusive Champions League
Twice this great manager has failed to land the most-coveted prize in club football. Klopp lost the 2012-13 Champions League final with Dortmund and the 2017-18 with Liverpool, the award that would show the world his true capability. With things looking positive for Liverpool this term, Klopp might just seal his name among the all-time greats in 2019.
Unlocking Klopp's tactics and mentality on the field
Klopp has made Liverpool into a team with strong and relentless determination, which fights with gusto and speed and never plays one loose ball. The intricate passing and lightning-fast counter-attacks have become Klopp's hallmark. Liverpool are also ruthlessly pressing their opponents every single match from the start, and trying to unlock their defense. Because Klopp knows a lot can change after an early goal.
