Rafael Benitez asserts that he comprehends the rationale behind Jurgen Klopp’s decision to step down as Liverpool manager and expresses only ‘positive words’ regarding the ‘enormous job’ Klopp has accomplished at Anfield.
Last Friday, Klopp sent shockwaves through the footballing world by revealing his impending departure in an interview with Liverpool’s official website.
- WATCH: Ben White & Zinchenko pulled apart after furious row following Arsenal win
- Arsenal’s highest paid player this season revealed
- Man Utd squad ‘angry’ with Marcus Rashford as club forced to take action
He cited a lack of ‘energy’ after eight-and-a-half trophy-laden years on Merseyside as the primary reason for his decision.
The 56-year-old former Borussia Dortmund manager undoubtedly aims to conclude his tenure on a high note in the summer.
The Reds currently lead the Premier League table by five points and are actively contending for silverware in the FA Cup and Carabao Cup.
Liverpool’s leadership has already initiated plans for the future, with Xabi Alonso, a hero from the 2005 Istanbul triumph, emerging as the frontrunner according to bookmakers. Alonso has had an impressive start to his managerial career at Bayer Leverkusen.
Other notable names like Roberto De Zerbi, Julian Nagelsmann, Zinedine Zidane, and Steven Gerrard are also in the running for the managerial position. Klopp leaves behind significant shoes to fill at the conclusion of the campaign.
During his press conference on Monday, Celta Vigo’s manager Benitez, who secured four trophies with Liverpool between 2004 and 2010, spoke highly of his ‘friend’ Klopp and hinted that there might be more to the story than what the German manager revealed.
‘I have an advantage which is that I have people in Liverpool and also people at the club, so more or less I know how it has happened,’ Benitez told reporters.
‘I only have positive words about Klopp because he is my friend and I have a good relationship with him.
‘He has done and is doing an enormous job. Everything I can say about Klopp and Liverpool is positive. ‘I know something else from inside, and it has more merit than being there.’
Benitez acknowledged Klopp for providing Liverpool with sufficient time to identify a fitting successor for the upcoming 2024/25 season.
‘He goes and speaks up, giving the club time to re-organise which, from another perspective, is also very German because they do notify in advance so it’s not a shock,’ the Spaniard added.
‘Let’s hope Liverpool will do well for now and when another coach comes too. I hope the best for the club.’
