Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is set to return to the dugout for a special farewell match honouring Borussia Dortmund legends Łukasz Piszczek and Jakub Błaszczykowski.
The 57-year-old Klopp, who is adjusting to life outside of football management, will participate in the event as the Premier League season kicks off without him for the first time in nine years.
Klopp surprised many when he announced his departure from Liverpool in January, officially stepping down after a 2-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers in May. During his final address to the Anfield faithful, Klopp sparked a chant for his successor, Dutchman Arne Slot, who he had officially confirmed as his replacement.
While it remains unclear when Klopp will return to a competitive managerial role, he continues to be celebrated on Merseyside. In July, Klopp became the first-ever honorary ambassador for the LFC Foundation, the club’s official charity, in recognition of his contributions on and off the pitch.
“Kollega, we have a farwell game, do you know that?” Piszczek begins.
“We need a coach and I have an idea, we’ll call the retired coach,” before the video call splits into three screens showing Klopp with black sunglasses on.
“You finally have your farewell game,” says the former Liverpool boss. “Oh my god. And you want to train, are you stupid?”
Klopp left both Dortmund legends in laughter when he answered: “I couldn’t care less,” when asked whether he would manage both teams or just one.
“I do it like I used to, I start thinking about it five minutes beforehand,” he added.
Throughout the summer, as vacancies have opened up, former Reds boss Jurgen Klopp has been linked with various managerial roles, including the potential position of England manager, should Gareth Southgate step down.
Klopp has since felt compelled to address the rumors connecting him with jobs around the globe.
Speaking at the end of July, he said: “At the moment, there is nothing at all in terms of jobs. No club, no country.
“A few people must not have heard this part. And it would be the biggest loss of face in the history of football if you said, ‘I’ll make an exception for you now’.
“I’m going to do some work. I’m too young to only do padel tennis and grandchildren.
“Will that be coach again? I would actually rule that out at the moment.
“Let’s see what it will look like in a few months.
“Nothing is coming through at the moment.
“Maybe we can talk about it again in a few months.
“I still want to work in football and help people with my experience and contacts.
“Let’s see what else there is for me.”
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