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      Liverpool’s post-Jurgen Klopp exodus begins with TWO stars released including Premier League and Champions League winner

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      LIVERPOOL have announced that popular duo Joel Matip and Thiago Alcantara will be leaving the club amid Jurgen Klopp’s departure.The Reds were rocked in January when their German manager announced that he would be leaving Anfield after nine years in charge.Joel Matip is leaving Liverpool this summer when his contract expiresCredit: PAThiago Alcantara will also become a free agent in JuneCredit: GettyCameroon defender Matip lifted the Champions League in 2019 with the RedsCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdThe star was one of Klopp’s first signings at LiverpoolCredit: Getty Images – GettyNow the Cameroon defender, 32, will follow him out of the exit door along with the 33-year-old Spanish midfielder when their contracts expire in June.Matip was one of Klopp’s first signings when he arrived as a free agent following a spell at Schalke 04.And he played a key role under the German in securing a number of trophies, including the Premier League title, for the club during his eight years.Led by the boss, Matip helped Liverpool to end their three decade wait to be champions as they lifted the Premier League in 2020.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThat came 12 months after he had lifted the Champions League.Thiago joined the summer after the title triumph for £20m from Bayern Munich, and both he and Matip were celebrating double cup joy in the 2020/21 campaign as the Reds won the League and FA Cups – although the Spaniard missed the first of those finals through injury.Matip suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury against Fulham in December that has sidelined him since.Thiago’s own injury issues have restricted him to just 28 appearances last season and he has only featured once this term due to fitness issues – meaning both missed out on collecting another League Cup medal.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSOn Matip, who will exit with 201 appearances, 11 goals and seven winner’s medals to his name, Klopp said: “In all the years that I have been involved in football, I am not sure I have come across too many players who are more loved than Joel Matip.“I’m not even sure it would be possible to say anything bad about him.Most dramatic Premier League’s final days“A wonderful professional, a wonderful footballer and a wonderful human being – we have been blessed to have him with us for as long as we have and now all we can do is wish him well as he heads off in a new direction.“Joel’s qualities as a player are there for all to see and as a club we have benefited from them since the first moment that he joined. I don’t think he has had too many headlines over the years but he has only ever been a very famous figure within our group.“I have said before that if there was one person who wouldn’t care if he was underrated it would be Joel, but the truth is we could not have rated him more highly.“Not only has he set the standards for himself, he has set them for others and this is one of the main reasons why his time here has been so successful.”Matip said: “It has been eight wonderful years here in Liverpool.“I was allowed to be part of an exciting history with a great coach and an astonishing team in an extraordinary club. We have achieved great titles and have the best fans in the world.Jurgen Klopp will leave Liverpool after Sunday’s match against WolvesCredit: PA“I am full of gratitude for the wonderful time I was able to experience with these unique people supporting the club and the fans who love Liverpool FC.“My wife and I have felt welcomed and supported from day one and together with the kids we had the best imaginable time here.“We will always keep it in special memories.”On Thiago, who added FA Cup and FA Community Shield medals to his collection while on Merseyside, Klopp said: “Before he even came to Liverpool I believed that if you really love football it would make a lot of sense if you watched Thiago Alcantara play.“Technically, he is so, so good. A talent who could play in any team in the world and it was a privilege to have him with us.Arne Slot is set to replace him in the Anfield dug-outCredit: Getty“I already knew a lot about him as a footballer before he got here – what he did at Barcelona and Bayern Munich, how could you not? – and I could not have been happier when he decided to take on a new challenge with us.“From that point on I got to see him up close and all I can say is ‘Wow’. Most importantly, he was part of a new story and helped us develop as a team because of his special qualities.“I know injuries have been a frustration for him and also for us but the level that he was able to play at when he was available was incredible. This is what I will remember.“Now he will go in a new direction with his family and we can only wish them well. Wherever he plays next I would be happy to watch. An artist of the game who will only ever paint the most beautiful pictures.”THIAGO’S FAREWELL STATEMENTThe Spanish midfielder has released his own goodbye:
      “Appreciation and gratitude. They are two words that come to mind on the day I have to say goodbye to all of you, Reds.
      “Thankful, too. Thankful for the opportunity to have been a part of this city, this club and this community,” he wrote.
      “The continuous support I have received since day one has been incredible. Anfield cheering, The Kop chanting… amazing, overwhelming.
      “A very unique fan base for a unique club.
      “These past four years have been a time of learning for me and my family.
      “Some wins, some defeats, but without a doubt, a life-changing experience.
      “Team mates, coaches, staff, and club employees: you were all part of it. And to the fans, I don’t have the words.
      “Just know you will have my deepest gratitude forever.
      “Thank you, it was an honour. All the best always, Liverpool FC.”

      While the two players and Klopp will make an emotional farewell to the Kop against Wolves in his final game on Sunday, two of his staff members are looking forward to an exciting new challenge.His assistant Pepijn Lijnders will take over as Red Bull Salzburg manager after he departs Liverpool.And he will be joined at the Austrian Bundesliga giants by fellow Anfield coach Vitor Matos, who will go as his No.2.READ MORE SUN STORIESFeyenoord manager Arne Slot, 45, is widely-believed to have already agreed to become Liverpool’s new boss for next season.And fans are just waiting for the formalities to be completed and an official announcement to be made with the Dutchman set to move into Klopp’s house on Merseyside.Klopp has botched his Liverpool exit… and it’s cost him his legacy, says Dave KiddBy Dave Kidd
      NOW we know Jurgen Klopp’s final major trophy haul at Liverpool — one Champions League, one Premier League, one FA Cup, two League Cups and (if you must) a World Club Cup.
      But where does his reign stand among the greatest of the Premier League era?
      In black-and-white terms, Klopp is way behind Sir Alex Ferguson and Pep Guardiola, the only two men to have won multiple Premier Leagues and a Champions League at the same club.
      Those two sit alongside Brian Clough, Bob Paisley and Sir Matt Busby as the undoubted all-time managerial greats of the English game.
      But Klopp ranks in the next tier down — with Arsene Wenger, Jose Mourinho (the Chelsea version), Bill Shankly and Don Revie.
      These were all men with the strength of character to transform their clubs in their own image and enjoy success but who did not win as much as they might have done.
      Had Klopp managed to keep his intentions under wraps and ended up with another title, perhaps even a treble or quadruple, he’d have edged himself up into that highest echelon with Ferguson, Guardiola, Clough, Paisley and Busby.
      But deciding the timing and the manner of your exit is one of the toughest calls for any manager or sportsman.
      Klopp got it wrong.
      Read Dave Kidd’s take on Klopp’s demise in full here.
      Or click here to check out all of Dave Kidd’s articles. More

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      How Tottenham could go from Champions League contention to Conference League in days after Postecoglou’s ‘fragile’ blast

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      TOTTENHAM’S disappointing end to the season could still culminate in a Europa Conference League place.Spurs suffered a fifth defeat in six games on Tuesday night, losing 2-0 to Manchester City as their hopes of Champions League qualification were ended.Tottenham could still end up with a Europa Conference League spotCredit: GettyThey sit fifth heading into the final day of the Premier League campaign, with a trip to bottom-of-the-table Sheffield United rounding off their campaign.A point would be good enough to guarantee Europa League football next season as Tottenham head into Sunday’s games three points clear of Chelsea.However, a defeat to Sheffield United and a win for Chelsea at home to Bournemouth would see Mauricio Pochettino’s men leapfrog them.If that happens, Tottenham’s European fate would then be determined by the outcome of the FA Cup final on May 25.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA win for Manchester City would ensure Tottenham go into the Europa League as Pep Guardiola’s men have already sealed Champions League football through their league position.But if Manchester United pull off a shock and lift the trophy at Wembley then Ange Postecoglou’s men will spend the 2024/25 season in the Conference League.That is something the Aussie will be keen to avoid by winning at Sheffield United on the weekend.Yet it may not be as easy as the table suggests, with Spurs claiming just one win from five Premier League games at Bramall Lane.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAnge Postecoglou’s shock commentsANGE POSTECOGLOU dropped a bombshell by claiming Spurs’ “foundations are fairly fragile” after the 2-0 loss to Manchester City.
      The Tottenham manager was clearly unhappy with many fans wanting the team to lose to City and so hurting Arsenal’s Prem title hopes.
      CHARLIE WYETT looks at the overall situation at Spurs.
      WHAT DID HE MEAN WITH “FRAGILE” COMMENT?
      It was a remarkable post-match press conference and Postecoglou’s anger was not solely directed at fans wanting Spurs to lose to City.
      Postecoglou clearly believed Tottenham fans were too concerned about Arsenal’s fortunes and should have only focused on their own team.
      Some would argue this is small-club syndrome.
      In fairness to the Spurs faithful, though, many other clubs’ fans in a similar situation would have felt the same.
      Asked where the fragility lies, Postecoglou said: “Outside, inside — everywhere. It’s been an interesting exercise.”
      Some felt Postecoglou’s comments were directed at chairman Daniel Levy but this is unlikely.
      He was possibly frustrated by the overall attitude of some members of staff at the club going into the City game.
      Equally, he was not impressed by Rodrigo Bentancur, who kicked his seat three times after being substituted.
      SPURS HAVE BLOWN FOURTH AND FACE THE EUROPA LEAGUE NEXT SEASON. WHAT DO THE PLAYERS THINK?
      Micky van de Ven said: “Of course, we are disappointed. Of course, we want to play in the Champions League.
      “Hopefully we can do some good stuff in the Europa League next year and we can reach the Champions League.
      “We are still positive. We are still trusting in what the gaffer wants.
      “We want to end the season strong. We have one game to go, and we want to win at Sheffield United and hopefully next year we can do some good things.”
      WHAT WILL ANGE DO THIS SUMMER IN THE TRANSFER MARKET?
      He will get backing from Levy even though the club will need to move on a few players as well.
      Spurs have done well to all-but clinch European football and improve on last season despite losing Harry Kane — but they need a new No 9 as it seems Richarlison cannot stay fit.
      They also need to strengthen in midfield, ideally a box-to-box player and also two full-backs for added depth.
      What Postecoglou most wants, and this takes us back to his comment about fragility, are some players who have been winners. Of the current squad, not many have won much and Postecoglou is very aware of this issue.
      WHAT DO THE FANS THINK?
      Postecoglou did not endear himself to supporters with comments both before and after the City match. PR-wise, it was a disaster.
      He cannot understand why many fans wanted a City win to stop Arsenal from winning the title.
      It was a superb start as boss but it has been a rollercoaster season.
      After accusations that he did not have a Plan B, Postecoglou made a few tactical tweaks for the City game.
      But a run of five losses in the last six has raised doubts among some fans.
      He still has support but, if Spurs struggle next term, it could get rocky at Christmas.

      That came the last time they travelled to the stadium in the league three years ago.In March 2023, Spurs were beaten by the Blades in the FA Cup.’Come on mate, want me to write you a dossier’ – Postecoglou fumes in live TV interview when asked about Tottenham lossAnd Tottenham come into the match following some worrying comments from manager Postecoglou – who was enraged that some of the Spurs faithful wanted them to lose to Man City to avoid helping Arsenal’s title bid.The Lilywhites boss, who also exploded at a Tottenham fan during the loss to Man City, said: “The last 48 hours have revealed that the foundations are fairly fragile.”That’s what I feel. The last 48 hours has revealed a fair bit to me.”But it just means I’ve got to go back to the drawing board with some things.”It’s outside, inside, everywhere. It’s been an interesting exercise.” More

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      PSG targeting shock Jean-Philippe Mateta transfer as Crystal Palace face horror summer with Olise and Eze hot property

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      PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN are eyeing Jean-Philippe Mateta – as Crystal Palace brace themselves for losing up to FOUR key players this summer.SunSport can reveal the French giants have joined a list of top suitors for striker Mateta.Jean-Philippe Mateta could be at the centre of a summer transfer battleCredit: GettyEberechi Eze and Michael Olise ae also wanted menCredit: RexThe uncapped Frenchman, 26, has blitzed the Premier League since the turn of the year – with many clubs now eyeing him.Mateta has notched 13 goals and four assists in 34 top-flight games for Palace this term.PSG are in the market for top signings to appease fans dismayed by the upcoming departure of Kylian Mbappe.And securing the services of Mateta – one of the Prem’s rising stars – would be regarded as a coup.READ MORE TOP STORIESHe’s also regarded as someone who could make the step up to Champions League level – the competition that PSG’s owners are so desperate to winNews of interest from the Ligue 1 champions is likely to worry Eagles’ supporters, who might see their four finest talents soon depart. As well as Mateta, playmaker Adam Wharton, winger Michael Olise and attacking midfielder Eberechi Eze are being chased by a string of major clubs.Bayern Munich are keen on £60million-rated ex-Blackburn star Wharton, 21.Most read in Champions LeagueBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSManchester United are believed to be at the front of the queue for Olise, having put the French flyer top of their summer wish-list.Eze is admired by Tottenham as well as teams in Spain, Germany and Italy. GMB host Susanna Reid teases Rio Ferdinand for Man Utd’s awful defeat to Crystal PalaceHis former club, QPR, would benefit from any deal as they have a sell-on fee built into his Palace contract.Palace’s owners are thought to be keen to ensure at least one of the three remains at the club.But if massive offers come in they could be forced to reconsider.Losing all three would infuriate manager Oliver Glasner, who has worked wonders since arriving at the club to replace Roy Hodgson. He’s already made it clear – publicly – he wants to retain his best players, not look to replace them.Adam Wharton is another Eagles’ ace under the transfer microscopeCredit: Getty More

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      Aston Villa surprise champions of Premier League top-four mini-league as fans joke ‘Arsenal taking second everywhere’

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      ASTON VILLA are surprise winners of the Premier League top-four mini table – sparking more second-class trolling of Arsenal.Villa romped home by two points in the tiny league based only on results between the four Champions League qualifiers.Villa boss Unai Emery did the double over his old clubCredit: GettyThe top and bottom of the full Prem were reversed in the mini leagueDeclan Rice, Jorginho & Co can reflect on Arsenal’s fading title bidCredit: ReutersThe Gunners were runners-up in the six-game table, with Liverpool third and Prem leaders Manchester City BOTTOM.And with Mikel Arteta’s men facing a second successive season as Prem runners-up to City, one fan joked: “Arsenal taking second everywhere.”That might be harsh as the Gunners picked up a respectable haul of two wins and two draws from their half-dozen elite Prem matches this season.But their two defeats against top-four rivals were both inflicted by Villa – managed by their old boss Unai Emery.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSAfter winning 1-0 last December, the Villans’ 2-0 victory at the Emirates last month turned the title tide away from Arsenal and in favour of City.Emery’s side also beat Pep Guardiola’s men 1-0 at home but then crashed 4-1 at the Etihad on April 3.In all, Villa finished with 10 points in the mini-league, with three wins, a draw and two losses.City picked up four points less – suggesting their success is based on remorseless consistency against weaker sides.Most read in FootballOllie Watkins has had a brilliant season as Villa stunned the top dogsCredit: ReutersBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMost fans were full of respect for Villa’s stunning achievement of impressing against major sides and being guaranteed fourth spot in the full Prem table.”Wow – they did so good this year!” said one observer.Gus Poyet explains why Arsenal are not out of Prem title hunt after Aston Villa heartbreakAnother claimed: “Yeah, gotta give credit where it’s due. Villa’s been punching above their weight in the big games.”A third pointed out: “Man Utd are the only club that beat them home and away this season.”But a fourth insisted: “Mini league champions… you’ll never sing that.”Others were puzzled by City’s poor record against their top-four opponents.One posted: “Man City winning the Premier league with only one win over the top 4 is all you need to know about how Pep has turned this League to his farm house.” More

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      Major broadcasting change for Champions League final as new channel steps in at the last minute

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      FOOTBALL fans will be able to watch next month’s Champions League final in a brand new way.A major broadcasting change has been announced ahead of the clash between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund.The Champions League final will be broadcast in a brand new way this seasonCredit: GettyThe UK’s European football broadcaster TNT Sports will continue to show the match on June 1.But they have today announced that non-subscribers will also be able to stream the Champions League action live on Discovery+.The option will also be available for the Europa League final between Bayer Leverkusen and Atalanta on May 22.And the Europa Conference League final on May 29 between Olympiakos and Fiorentina will be shown on Discovery+ too.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSIt means fans will have several ways to watch the action for all three showpiece events.The Conference final sees Fiorentina attempt to win a second continental trophy after losing last year’s game to West Ham, with Joe Cole and Don Hutchison in the TNT Sports studio.But the Italians face a tough challenge in Greek gods Olympiakos, who demolished Aston Villa in the semis and will fancy their chances at the home of rivals AEK Athens.A week earlier, the Europa final between Leverkusen and Atalanta takes place and will be monitored by Cole, Peter Crouch and Owen Hargreaves.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAll eyes will be on new German champs Bayer, who remain unbeaten in all competitions this season.But their Italian opponents will be a tough nut to crack, with Atalanta on a four-game winning run and hopeful of a Champions League finish in Serie A.Aston Villa stars and wags go wild as Emi Martinez soaks team in champagne after Haaland goal secures Champions LeagueChampions League winners this centuryThere have been 10 different winners since 2000:

      2023 – Man City

      2022 – Real Madrid

      2021 – Chelsea

      2020 – Bayern Munich

      2019 – Liverpool

      2018 – Real Madrid

      2017 – Real Madrid

      2016 – Real Madrid

      2015 – Barcelona

      2014 – Real Madrid

      2013 – Bayern Munich

      2012 – Chelsea

      2011 – Barcelona

      2010 – Inter Milan

      2009 – Barcelona

      2008 – Man Utd

      2007 – AC Milan

      2006 – Barcelona

      2005 – Barcelona

      2004 – Liverpool

      2003 – Porto

      2002 – AC Milan

      2001 – Real Madrid

      2000 – Bayern Munich

      The last game will be the Champions League final, and has Hargreaves, Steve McManaman and Rio Ferdinand in tow.Borussia Dortmund reached the Wembley final 11 years ago before losing to Bayern Munich.They KO’d giants like Atletico Madrid and PSG on the way too, with stars including Man Utd loanee Jadon Sancho in top form.But perennial Champions League giants Real Madrid are favourites after defeating Man City and Bayern.The Spaniards have already won the competition a record 14 times, and Jude Bellingham will be hoping to make a huge impact ahead of England’s Euros challenge.Ultimate sports presenters rich list
      TV sports presenters make a mint.
      The biggest and best are signed up on yearly deals with the likes of the BBC, ITV and Sky for your viewing pleasure.
      Laura Woods is dominating the media landscape at the moment, leading TNT Sports’ coverage and ITV’s.
      Alex Scott and Jermaine Jenas are two of the fresher faces for the BBC’s sporting output.
      Then, it’s the old guard of Gary Lineker and Mark Chapman who also command hefty fees for their Match of the Day programmes.
      SunSport has taken a look at how those big names rank and compiled a list of the top 10 highest earning stars that grace our TV screens.
      With number one worth a whopping £29.4million more than number 10!
      Read the story and see the full list here. More

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      Prince William sends jubilant message to Aston Villa as club seal Champions League spot and ‘can’t wait for next season’

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      PRINCE WILLIAM hailed Aston Villa’s new highness – as his message hailing his heroes’ historic Champions League qualification went viral.The first in line to the throne “can’t wait for next season” after Villa were ensured the Premier League’s fourth and final spot at Europe’s top table.Big fan Prince William will see Villa in the Champions LeagueCredit: ReutersWe are Champions League! A historic season and an amazing achievement. Thanks to Unai, the whole squad and everyone at @AVFCOfficial. Can’t wait for next season. #UTV! W https://t.co/u2px5yLqkR— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) May 14, 2024

      The Prince must be looking forward to big European nightsCredit: RexHis favourite club will be in the continent’s top cup competition for the first time since 1982-83 – when they entered what was then called the European Cup as defending champions.The Prince went straight on social media to share his joy at Villa’s royal ascent – after Manchester City’s 2-0 defeat of Tottenham meant fifth-place Spurs can’t catch his team.Via his official account with the Princess of Wales, he posted: “We are Champions League! A historic season and an amazing achievement. Thanks to Unai, the whole squad and everyone at @AVFCOfficial. Can’t wait for next season. #UTV! W”Villa players leapt and danced with joy in a video of Unai Emery’s men watching on a large screen at their end-of-season awards-do as City won.READ MORE TOP STORIESDefender Lucas Digne’s crazy revelling impressed viewers, while keeper Emi Martinez was on hand to shower his team-mates with champagne.However, Ollie Watkins looked less happy – with some observers mischievously speculating that was because he’s an Arsenal fan who had just seen City virtually seal a fourth successive title.Nonetheless, individual plaudits at Villa this season have focused on that same striker – as well as boss Emery’s awesome 19-month reign.Watkins’ red-hot form means the Englishman could even have hopes of a Euro 2024 starting place, let alone just a squad spot.Most read in Champions LeagueMan City’s Erling Haaland tucked home a penalty to finish off Spurs and ensure Villa earned a Champions League spot via fourth place in the PremCredit: ReutersBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMeanwhile, there have been widespread calls for ex-Arsenal chief Emery to be named manager of the year.Soon after completing the double over the Gunners, Villa roared back for a 3-3 home draw with Liverpool on Monday, thanks to sub Jhon Duran striking twice in the closing minutes.Forgotten five-time Champions League winner, 32, wins 19th MOTM award in just 28 games after stunning career revival And after Erling Haaland’s two goals downed Spurs 24 hours later, Prince William’s regal rejoicing spread the joy.But despite his jubilant post on X, he was quickly corrected on his language by one royal jester.That fan suggested the Prince should be chanting: “One is Champions League! I say one is Champions League!”But as Pep Guardiola’s men look certain to clinch yet another crown ahead of Arsenal on Sunday’s final day, one fed-up supporter asked William to have a word in the right ear.He wrote: “Can you tell your Dad to relegate City? Please and thank you.”King Charles might be too diplomatic for that – but on the other hand he no longer has much skin in the game now that his favourite team, Burnley, have been relegated.Supporters on social media were thrilled to see Prince William’s contribution to Villa’s joy.READ MORE SUN STORIESOne said: “Imagine having the future King of England as one of your fans. You can’t beat that.”Another asked: “Any room for me and my lad in your royal box next season, couldn’t get him a ticket all season.”Lucas Digne revelled at Villa’s end- of-season awardsCredit: https://twitter.com/AVFCOfficial More

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      Liverpool No2 Pep Lijnders lands management job with club set to play in major tournament Klopp couldn’t qualify for

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      LIVERPOOL’S assistant manager has landed a new job as boss of a club set to compete in a competition Jurgen Klopp couldn’t qualify for.The Reds were rocked in January when their German manager announced that he would be leaving Anfield this summer.Jurgen Klopp’s assistant Pep Lijnders (left) has landed a new job in AustriaCredit: PAThe two men will both bid farewell to Anfield on SundayCredit: GettyThe 56-year-old ensured that he will depart with some silverware when guiding the Reds to Carabao Cup success in February.However, his hopes of leading them to the title are as well as their FA Cup and Europa League aspirations also being ended.Feyenoord manager Arne Slot, 45, is widely-believed to have already agreed to become Liverpool’s new boss for next season.And fans are just waiting for the formalities to be completed and an official announcement to be made with the Dutchman set to move into Klopp’s house on Merseyside.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLBut, while Klopp is set to make an emotional farewell to the Kop against Wolves in his final game on Sunday, two of his staff members are looking forward to an exciting new challenge.Pepijn Lijnders, will take over as Red Bull Salzburg manager after he departs Liverpool this weekend.And he will be joined at the Austrian Bundesliga giants by fellow Anfield coach Vitor Matos, who will go as his No.2.Lijnders said: “I am very proud to become the new head coach of FC Red Bull Salzburg.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“This is a real privilege for me. After PSV Eindhoven, FC Porto and Liverpool FC, I am now moving to another exceptional club with a really good structure and a particular focus on youth development.“I want to develop a mentality with the team that places a lot of emphasis on attacking style of play and where passion and hunger for success are the basis of everything.Most dramatic Premier League’s final days“Together with my assistant coach Vitor Matos and the entire support team, we will do our best to help the club continue to grow in an ever-changing football world.“My family has visited the city before and was overwhelmed by its beauty and the friendliness of the people. That was the last and important step for me in choosing FC Red Bull Salzburg.”Lijnders initially worked at Liverpool from 2014 as U16s coach but then stepped up to be first-team development coach in 2015.Working initially under Brendan Rodgers, he remained in his role under Klopp before the Dutchman headed for a one-year spell as boss at NEC Nijmegen in his homeland.What they have said about Arne SlotHere’s what the experts think about Klopp’s replacement:
      MATT WADE, head of sporting strategy at Feyenoord
      “He is a brilliant communicator, and consultative, but also clear at the same time.
      “He is quite cautious, quite introverted, but very rule based and principled, which means everyone knows where they stand.
      “And he is not paranoid, which allows freedom for specialists to operate.”
      SANDER WESTERVELD, former Liverpool goalkeeper and team-mate of Arne Slot
      “When I played with Arne at Sparta, you could see that he would become a coach.
      “He was a leader, a No10 midfielder and someone who would change tactics by himself.
      “The job he has done at Feyenoord makes him the perfect fit for Liverpool.”
      Dutch football journalist MARCEL VAN DER KRAAN
      “I’ve followed Feyenoord for 40 years. Not since the days of Johan Cruyff at Ajax in the 1980s has there been a coach so attack-minded in the Dutch league.
      “Cruyff only had a few disciples who followed him and one of them was Pep Guardiola.”
      Arsenal star REISS NELSON who played 31 games under Slot on loan at Feyenoord
      “I felt like Arne Slot is a great manager. He really got me into my rhythm.
      “He gave me a lot of opportunities to play and I excelled.”

      But Lijnders returned to Liverpool as assistant manager ahead of the 2018/19 campaign and played a key role in Klopp’s success.Liverpool were denied a place at the expanded 2025 Club World Cup while Arsenal also missed out after they were eliminated from the Champions League.Fifa decided that no more than two teams per country would be guaranteed participation in the controversial 32-team event with Man City and Chelsea representing the Premier League.Each Champions League winner from the period between 2021 and 2024 qualifies, meaning the 2023 and 2021 winners both make the cut.That ruled out the Kopites, while Arsenal needed to go all the way by winning this season’s Champions League to take part in it.However, they have now been knocked out of both events as a result of their defeat by Bayern Munich in the quarters.Instead, their spot will go to RB Salzburg – who will have their new man at the helm.READ MORE SUN STORIESThey’ve never won a European trophy and have only ever made it out of the Champions League group stage once.The second criteria is based on a club’s place in the Uefa Champions League coefficient over the same period, which is how Salzburg got in.Klopp has botched his Liverpool exit… and it’s cost him his legacy, says Dave KiddBy Dave Kidd
      NOW we know Jurgen Klopp’s final major trophy haul at Liverpool — one Champions League, one Premier League, one FA Cup, two League Cups and (if you must) a World Club Cup.
      But where does his reign stand among the greatest of the Premier League era?
      In black-and-white terms, Klopp is way behind Sir Alex Ferguson and Pep Guardiola, the only two men to have won multiple Premier Leagues and a Champions League at the same club.
      Those two sit alongside Brian Clough, Bob Paisley and Sir Matt Busby as the undoubted all-time managerial greats of the English game.
      But Klopp ranks in the next tier down — with Arsene Wenger, Jose Mourinho (the Chelsea version), Bill Shankly and Don Revie.
      These were all men with the strength of character to transform their clubs in their own image and enjoy success but who did not win as much as they might have done.
      Had Klopp managed to keep his intentions under wraps and ended up with another title, perhaps even a treble or quadruple, he’d have edged himself up into that highest echelon with Ferguson, Guardiola, Clough, Paisley and Busby.
      But deciding the timing and the manner of your exit is one of the toughest calls for any manager or sportsman.
      Klopp got it wrong.
      Read Dave Kidd’s take on Klopp’s demise in full here.
      Or click here to check out all of Dave Kidd’s articles. More

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      Chelsea land £5MILLION bonus from Real Madrid due to little-known Hazard transfer clause – despite him RETIRING

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      CHELSEA will pocket £5million from Real Madrid due to a little-known clause in the deal to sign Eden Hazard despite the star RETIRING, according to reports. Hazard, 33, signed for the Spanish giants from the Blues in 2019 in a deal worth £130m.Chelsea will receive £5million after Real Madrid made the Champions League finalCredit: ReutersIt comes as part of the deal Madrid made to sign Eden Hazard in 2019Credit: GettyThe terms in the deal remain valid despite Hazard retiring in OctoberCredit: GettyThe deal saw Chelsea receive £88m up front, with various performance related clauses and add-ons included.The Belgian signed a five-year deal worth £20m a season with Los Blancos but struggled with injury throughout his time at the club.After playing just 54 LaLiga games for Madrid, Hazard saw his contract with the club terminated last summer.He then announced his retirement from football in October. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever, the terms of the deal between Chelsea and Madrid have remained valid, according to The Telegraph.And Carlo Ancelotti guiding Madrid to the Champions League final this season has seen another of these bonuses triggered. It means Chelsea, who recently sold their training ground and a hotel in intra-group deals to help them with Premier League Profit and Sustainability rules, will gain a bonus £5m.Despite hanging up his pro boots, Hazard has shown he still has his incredible football ability.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFootage showed him skinning four players in training before impressing in a charity football match in Qatar.Hazard initially came through the ranks with Lille before joining Chelsea. Watch Eden Hazard ‘leave influencer for dead’ as ex-Chelsea star skins four players before scoring in charity matchAt Stamford Bridge he won two Premier League titles, two Europa League’s, the FA Cup and the League Cup while scoring 110 goals and adding 85 assists in 352 appearances. More