Jurgen Klopp has once again extended his "thoughts and prayers" to those affected by the incident at Liverpool FC's Premier League title victory parade, stating "it should have been one of the greatest days in the history of the city".
The former manager released an initial statement after the incident, but then spoke in further detail at the League Managers Association (LMA) awards dinner on Tuesday night.
Arne Slot was scheduled to attend the event to receive the LMA and Premier League manager of the season awards, however, the current Reds boss and a delegation of senior club staff withdrew in solidarity with those affected by the incident on Water Street. More than 60 people were injured after a car was driven into a crowd, with 11 people still in hospital as of Tuesday night.
On Tuesday, Merseyside Police reported that a 53-year-old white British man from West Derby had been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, dangerous driving, and driving while unfit through drugs after dozens of people were injured by a car close to the end of the bus parade route.
Liverpool had earlier canceled all internal events to mark their title win. But Klopp was in London, where he was inducted into the LMA Hall of Fame 1000 club.
Upon receiving the associated award, the 57-year-old German reflected on events in Liverpool city center, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Jurgen Klopp speaks at the LMA awards dinner
Jurgen Klopp speaks at the LMA awards dinner (Image: Sky Sports News)
"Yesterday it just showed the two faces of life," he said. "The most beautiful face for a long, long time — the parade was incredible, it was incredible.
"From one second to the other everything changed because we then learned again there are more serious things in the world than football. Obviously thoughts and prayers go to the, as far as I know now, the injured and to the families of course as well.
"It should have been one of the greatest days in the history of the city after a long, long time because we didn't have opportunity to do that last time, but as I said it showed the bad face of life as well.
"I at least don't know anything about exactly what happened — how and why it happened — but we all know what happened and that is very, very bad."
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In his earlier statement posted to social media, Klopp had shared his devastation over what had happened. "My family and I are shocked and devastated," he wrote. "Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who are injured and affected. You'll Never Walk Alone."
Arne Slot was made the LMA Manager of the Year. "As you will know, a shocking incident took place in Liverpool yesterday, one that left dozens of men, women and children who had attended our parade injured," he said.
"As a result I have had to withdraw from the event out of solidarity with all affected. This is not a decision I have taken lightly but it is one that I feel is absolutely right given the seriousness of the situation. I hope that I have your understanding in this regard."