Need to know
Liverpool's legendary manager Jurgen Klopp is set to return to the Anfield dugout for a Legends charity game in March 2026
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp looks on
Jurgen Klopp left Liverpool at the end of the 2023/24 season(Image: PA)
Why Jurgen Klopp decided to leave Liverpool
Depleted Energy Levels - Jurgen Klopp candidly admitted he was simply "running out of energy" to stay on top of the intense 24/7 demands of managing an elite club like Liverpool. He explained he could no longer perform the role at the 100% level the club deserves.
Weight of Constant Planning - He noticed his exhaustion during a meeting ahead of his final campaign about pre-season and potential transfers. The realisation that he wasn't sure he would be there to see those plans come to fruition was a major factor in his decision.
Desire for a Normal Life - After nearly 24 years in professional management without a significant break, Klopp expressed a need to discover what "normal life" is like. He wanted to step away before he was "too old" to enjoy a life outside the high-pressure football bubble.
Leaving on a High Note - Klopp was determined not to leave while the squad was in crisis, as they had been during a difficult 2022/2023 season. Once he felt he had successfully "put the team back on the rails," he saw it as the perfect moment for a smooth transition.
Avoiding "Passenger" Status - He was adamant about never becoming a "passenger" or someone who just did the job "somehow" without full passion. His managerial style relied heavily on emotion and he felt it would be unfair to the fans to stay if that fire was fading.
Responsibility Toward Club Planning - By announcing his decision internally in November, he gave the owners ample time to find a successor. He wanted to ensure the club had the space to conduct a professional search for a new manager without being rushed.
Physical Fatigue - He noted that while he was healthy, the relentless schedule of six press conferences a week for nine years had taken its toll. He admitted a standard four-week summer break was no longer enough to recharge for the challenges of a new season.
Completing the Squad Rebuild - Klopp felt a deep sense of satisfaction with the "Liverpool 2.0" squad he built with young, talented players. Knowing the foundation was strong allowed him to leave with a clear conscience, confident in the club's future success.