Liverpool are seriously thinking about replacing manager Jurgen Klopp after last night’s Champions League humiliation.
The Reds were thumped 5-2 by holders Real Madrid, with the tie now all-but over heading into the second-leg. And as per Caught Offside, the result could have huge ramifications for Klopp.
They claim that after a hugely disappointing domestic season, the Liverpool hierarchy was banking on a good performance in Europe. It’s even suggested that how they did in the Champions League would have a big bearing on Klopp’s immediate future.
With elimination now a very likely scenario, it’s claimed that ‘conversations’ surrounding replacing the German have already been had.
Caught Offside site one source ‘inside the club’ as describing things under Klopp as being too ‘samesy.’ As a result, Bayern Munich boss Julian Nagelsmann has reportedly already been ‘earmarked’ to take over.
Despite having three years to run on his contract in Bavaria, it’s claimed that Nagelsmann would ‘jump’ at the chance to succeed his countryman. Crucially though, a final decision is said to have not yet been reached. Should that decision come down in favour of a change, Klopp will reportedly be given the chance for a respectful resignation.
Jurgen the man to lead the rebuild
After a result as poor as Liverpool’s last night, this kind of report doesn’t come as too much of a shock. In truth, most manager’s wouldn’t have lasted even this deep into a season like the Reds are having.
But Jurgen Klopp isn’t most managers. No matter the results from here to the end of the season, there’s surely no way that he’s relieved of his duties. If he is, then half the playing staff should have their contracts rescinded, too.
Whatever happens in Madrid or domestically for the rest of the campaign, Klopp is safe. He should be given the chance to lead the rebuild at the very, very least.
Having said all that, Nagelsmann would feel a good pick to succeed him when the time comes. It’s interesting that both managers have contracts expiring in 2026.
For the Bayern coach, a move to England would feel like a logical next step. For Liverpool, they’d be getting one of the brightest and best in the business.
That time hasn’t yet been reached, though. There’s no doubt that a freshening up is needed at Anfield but our time will come again. When it does, it’ll feel even sweeter with Jurgen still at the helm. He’s going nowhere.