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      Moment Pep Guardiola is brought to tears and struggles to speak as he pays respects to Jurgen Klopp after Liverpool exit

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      PEP GUARDIOLA was brought to tears as he paid respect to outgoing Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp.Manchester City were crowned English champions for the 10th time – eighth in the Premier League era – after beating West Ham 3-1 on the final day.Pep Guardiola was emotional as he spoke about Jurgen KloppCredit: YouTube / HaytersTVHe said he was an important part of his lifeCredit: YouTube / HaytersTVKlopp had hailed Guardiola as the best manager in the worldCredit: ReutersIt was a historic day for English football as no club had ever won four titles in a row before Guardiola’s outfit.However, the Spaniard took a moment out of the celebrations to talk about Klopp, who has been his No1 rival during his time in England.And the 53-year-old struggled to speak as paid an emotional tribute to the German.He said: “I will miss him a lot. Jurgen has been a really important part of my life. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”He brought me to another level as a manager.”I think we respect each other incredibly.”I have the feeling he will be back.”I just want to say thank you so much for his words but he knows personally that behind me there is a lot of things this club has provided and given to me.” Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSKlopp, 56, had hailed the ex-Barcelona manager as “the best manager in the world” following his Anfield farewell, regardless of the 115 charges still looming over the Etihad club.He said: “Everybody knows about the 115 charges, but I have no clue what that means.Pep Guardiola drops Man City bombshell moments after winning title as he reveals ‘I’m closer to leaving than staying'”I only know the number. Whatever has happened at Manchester City, Pep Guardiola is the best manager in the world – and that is really important.”If you put any other manager in that club, they don’t win the league four times in a row. “That’s down to him and his boys. Does that mean they can do what they want? “No. But I don’t know what they did – if they did anything – and I’m not here to say they have.How Klopp and Guardiola compare throughout their careers‌”We will see. Of course, I would like to know (if City are guilty) one day. “Everyone wants to know. But I will be somewhere else. “The quality of Pep makes the difference so I don’t worry about these things. “We will see. It’s not my problem and I am fine with what we have and what we’ve achieved.”Klopp is the only manager to have won more games against Guardiola than he has lost.The Reds also finished runners up to City twice with the title going down to the final day, with one season seeing them finish on 97 points and the other seeing them finish on 92.Liverpool also knocked City out of the Champions League in spectacular fashion in 2018.Moments after lifting the title, Guardiola hinted he could follow him out of the door when his contract is up next season.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe said: “The reality is I am closer to leaving than staying. We have talked with the club — my feeling is that I want to stay now.”So I will stay next season and during the season we will talk. But eight or nine years? We will see.”Man City’s five key moments this seasonA look at the five key moments in Man City’s title winning campaign…

      Luton 1 – 2 Man City: City bounce back from a run of four games without a win to kick-start their unbeaten run.
      Newcastle 2 – 3 Man City: Kevin De Bruyne returns from injury to come off the bench and inspire a late turnaround against the Magpies.
      Man City 3 – 1 Man Utd: Phil Foden puts on a masterclass as City lay down a marker on their title ambitions and breeze past their local rivals in the process.
      Man City 0 – 0 Arsenal: A goalless draw that, although disappointing, meant City were still keeping pace with the teams around them and could maintain their spot in the title race. A loss could have put Arsenal out of sight of the Cityzens.
      Man City 4 – 1 Aston Villa: Following consecutive draws against title rivals Arsenal and Liverpool, City bounce back with a thumping of Unai Emery’s high-flying Villa to keep the pressure on the Gunners. More

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      Wolves have star SENT OFF by VAR in Klopp’s final Liverpool game days after filing motion to have it scrapped

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      NELSON SEMEDO was sent off for a lunge on Alexis Mac Allister in Wolves’ final-day clash with Liverpool.Referee Chris Kavanagh originally gave a yellow card but upgraded the punishment after being asked to check the monitor by the VAR.Nelson Semedo catches Alexis Mac Allister on the ankleCredit: Sky sportsThe Wolves star got his marching ordersCredit: ReutersMac Allister needed treatment after the challengeCredit: GettyThe Reds are trying to send Jurgen Klopp out on a high as the German leaves after eight-and-a-half years at the helm.And their chances were boosted by the red.Mac Allister scored just eight minutes later and Jarell Quansah made it 2-0 five minutes before the break.”No complaints. Abysmal challenge from Semedo,” said one fan on X.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnother added: “I think its an orange card, but what I’d say is that I’d find it impossible to believe the decision would have been overturned if it was Macallister on Semedo rather than the other way around. “Maybe I’m just paranoid/disillusioned though.”Top-flight sides are set to vote on whether or not to continue using the video assistants following a complaint from Wolves.According to The Athletic, the club have formally submitted a resolution to the Premier League calling for VAR to be scrapped.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSIn doing so, Wolves have triggered a vote from the 20 clubs on June 6.A statement from Wolves reads: “There is no blame to be placed — we are all just looking for the best possible outcome for football — and all stakeholders have been working hard to try and make the introduction of additional technology a success.Jurgen Klopp joins Instagram to share sweet farewell video.. and includes subtle nod to first Liverpool press conference”However, after five seasons of VAR in the Premier League, it is time for a constructive and critical debate on its future.”Our position is that the price we are paying for a small increase in accuracy is at odds with the spirit of our game, and as a result we should remove it from the 2024/25 season onwards.”The club added that they accept the decision to introduce VAR was “made in good faith” and “with the best interests of football and the Premier League at its heart”.Wolves’ VAR complaintsWolves have listed nine negative repercussions from the introduction of VAR in their complaint.

      Impact on goal celebrations and the spontaneous passion that makes football special
      Frustration and confusion inside stadiums due to lengthy VAR checks and poor communication
      A more hostile atmosphere with protests, booing of the Premier League anthem and chants against VAR
      Overreach of VAR’s original purpose to correct clear and obvious mistakes, now overanalysing subjective decisions and compromising the game’s fluidity and integrity
      Diminished accountability of on-field officials, due to the safety net of VAR, leading to an erosion of authority on the pitch
      Continued errors despite VAR, with supporters unable to accept human error after multiple views and replays, damaging confidence in officiating standards
      Disruption of the Premier League’s fast pace with lengthy VAR checks and more added time, causing matches to run excessively long
      Constant discourse about VAR decisions often overshadowing the match itself, and tarnishing the reputation of the league
      Erosion of trust and reputation, with VAR fuelling completely nonsensical allegations of corruption

      However, they now argue the practice has caused “numerous negative consequences”.Wolves also claim those consequences are “damaging the relationship between fans and football” as well as “undermining the value of the Premier League brand”.Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the Premier League said: “The Premier League can confirm it will facilitate a discussion on VAR with our clubs at the annual general meeting next month.”Clubs are entitled to put forward proposals at shareholders’ meetings and we acknowledge the concerns and issues around the use of VAR.READ MORE SUN STORIES”However, the league fully supports the use of VAR and remains committed, alongside PGMOL, to make continued improvements to the system for the benefit of the game and fans.”VAR: The great debate
      Martin Lipton’s pro VAR view
      FAST forward 12 months to May 18, 2025.
      After 89 minutes at Molineux, Wolves, needing to win their last game of the season to stay up, are beating Manchester United, who require a point for Champions League football.
      A ball over the top sends Rasmus Hojlund racing away. The flag stays down. Hojlund scores. Wolves are relegated.
      And on the way home, the dejected Wolves fans see the still image on their phones.
      Hojlund was 2ft offside. No question. A shocker.It means at least a year in the Championship, £100million income drop, a firesale of the squad. While United bank an extra £50m.
      But it’s OK. Every  one of those fans, plus smiling boss Gary O’Neil and the  Wolves board, will line up to say: “No worries. It’s what we voted for. Rough with the smooth.”
      Yes. And I’ve got a bridge to Ireland to sell you.
      Dan King’s anti VAR view
      THREE cheers and a hearty slap on the back for Wolves chairman Jeff Shi.
      For mentioning the unmentionable,  for speaking commonsense to deaf ears, for proposing that VAR should be scrapped.
      Shi is doomed to failure. His suggestion is unlikely to even go to a vote at next month’s Premier League AGM.
      And if it does get that far, it has a cat in hell’s chance of receiving the two-thirds majority required to carry such a radical proposal.But in one statement on Wednesday, Shi proved that he will be the brightest man in that meeting room.
      He claimed VAR ‘has led to numerous unintended negative consequences that are damaging the relationship between fans and football, and undermining the value of the Premier League brand’.
      And he is absolutely spot on.
      The argument against VAR is wide-ranging and yet completely basic.
      If you believe that football is a sport, to be enjoyed in all its spontaneous, high-tempo glory, then you are against VAR.
      If you believe that football is a business, that it is far more important than a mere game, that forensic evidence must be applied, that we must reach the closest point to ultimate justice at all costs — and if you also believe that match-going supporters are irrelevant — then you are in favour of VAR. More

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      Klopp shows fans inside his office with belongings boxed up after ‘strange and emotional’ Liverpool training session

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      JURGEN KLOPP provided a glimpse into his now former office after a “strange and emotional” Liverpool training session.The Reds were rocked in January when their German manager announced that he was going to leave Anfield after nine years at the end of the season.Jurgen Klopp posted an Instagram clip from inside his now former officeCredit: Instagram @KloppoThe footage showed boxes packed with his belongingsCredit: Instagram @KloppoKlopp said his final training session was ‘strange’ and ’emotional’Credit: Instagram @KloppoKlopp, who departs after winning the Carabao Cup in February, will make an emotional farewell to the Kop against Wolves in his final game on Sunday.He has guided the club to both Premier League title and Champions League glory as Arne Slot prepares to replace him in the dug-out.However, ahead of his grand finale tomorrow, Klopp shocked fans by joining Instagram and then issuing a sweet farewell video. He then followed that up with another video in which he provided supporters with a look inside his office at the club’s training ground.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAnd it showed that he has already boxed up his things as he prepared to leave the Reds’ HQ for the last time.“So, here I am, last day in the office,” he begins with.At that point he turned the camera to a window that overlooked one of the green pitches at Kirkby.Klopp continued: “Last session done and it was strange I would say.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“Few of the coaches got quite emotional, I would so.“I didn’t quite yet. I told myself that tomorrow’s a game and after that is holiday.Most dramatic Premier League’s final days“Obviously, I decide what I think until I get overwhelmed tomorrow.“So, I will leave this place which is… erm… yeah… an interesting experience I would say.”And at that point he pans the camera around to show several boxes he has packed with his belongings and keepsakes before finishing with a cheeky smile and a “ay-ay-ay-ay-ay”.He then finished off with: “See you tomorrow.”Meanwhile Dutchman Slot is also set to move into Klopp’s house on Merseyside.And the Anfield exodus continued this week when Liverpool announced that popular duo Joel Matip and Thiago Alcantara will be leaving the club.While the two players and Klopp will make an emotional farewell tomorrow, two of his staff members are looking forward to an exciting new challenge.READ MORE SUN STORIESHis 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.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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      Fans ask ‘is this real?’ as Burger King pay tribute to Jurgen Klopp with monster ‘KLOPPER’ burger boasting EIGHT patties

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      FANS asked “Is this real?” after Burger King posted a tribute to Jurgen Klopp ahead of his final game in charge of Liverpool.The burger-chain shared an image of “The Klopper”, a burger with eight patties in it to represent each trophy Klopp has won.Burger King unveiled ‘The Klopper’ on XCredit: Burger KingKlopp will oversee his final Liverpool game on SundayCredit: RexThe company posted on X to say: “8 tiers for 8 trophies… introducing the Klopper.”The image alongside it featured a fan in a Liverpool scarf preparing to tuck in to the eight tier burger.One confused fan asked: “Is this real?”Another fan excitedly replied: “I’ll take eight” alongside a gif of Jurgen Klopp saying “I love it”.READ MORE ON BOXINGAnother fan wrote: “I want one right now.”A fourth fan posted a gif of Klopp nodding in approval.A fifth said: “Damn, my gaffer is massive! His own burger now.”A sixth asked: “Can we ask for a Klopper in store?”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSKlopp will take charge of his final game game at Anfield against Wolves tomorrow at 4pm.The manager announced he would be stepping down at the end of this season in January this year, saying he is “running out of energy”.Jurgen Klopp vows NEVER to watch TNT Sports again as Liverpool boss launches hilarious rant over ‘favourite TV channel’His successor, Arne Slot confirmed that he would take over as Liverpool manager in an interview yesterday.TYSON FURY VS OLEKSANDR USYK LIVE: ALL THE LATEST FROM HUGE UNDISPUTED WORLD TITLE FIGHT More

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      Jurgen Klopp reveals James Maddison is the one Premier League star he doesn’t like after holding grudge for FIVE YEARS

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      JURGEN KLOPP has revealed that James Maddison is the Premier League player that he dislikes the most ahead of his Liverpool exit.The German, 56, rocked the Reds when he announced in January that would be leaving Anfield this summer.Jurgen Klopp has revealed which Premier League player he dislikes the mostCredit: RexHe still holds a grudge against James Maddison after five yearsCredit: APVincent Kompany scored a famous late winner against Leicester to help Man City claim the 2019 titleCredit: ReutersKlopp blames Maddison, who was in action for the Foxes that night, for not closing Kompany downCredit: Getty[embedded content]He ensured that he will depart with some silverware when guiding Liverpool to Carabao Cup success in February.And he had already achieved legendary status on Merseyside after ending their 30-year wait for the title and lifting the Champions League.Klopp secured seven major trophies during his nine-year reign but he had a host of other near misses.Two Champions League final defeats to Real Madrid must still hurt, but it is for something domestically that the ex-Borussia Dortmund chief still holds a grudge over Maddison for.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLBack in the 2019 Premier League title race, Vincent Kompany scored an unforgettable late piledriver against Leicester City that essentially secured them the crown.The Cityzens beat Liverpool to the title by just a point – but Klopp says he blames then Leicester ace Maddison for giving Kompany time to shoot.Klopp told Redmen TV: “The moment when Vincent Kompany touched the ball there, I am really happy I didn’t get a stroke in that moment as that’s how it must feel.“I remember exactly how I was lying on the sofa watching and thinking ‘Maddison block him, close him down’.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS“Since then I don’t like Maddison. I was angry with Brendan [Rodgers] that day because he should have taken him off, he was tired.“Leicester played really good first half, after that they should have scored.Dream Team’s Nick Elliott previews this summer’s Euro 2024 tournament game“It’s just a personal thing, I have no problem with him, but when I see him it’s… and now I saw him again last weekend.”Klopp came face-to-face with Maddison when Liverpool beat the England star’s Tottenham 4-2 win at Anfield.Meanwhile, the Red have announced that popular duo Joel Matip and Thiago Alcantara will be leaving the club amid Klopp’s departure.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.Thiago joined weeks after the 2020 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.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.

      While the duo 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.He will be joined at the Austrian Bundesliga giants by fellow Anfield coach Vitor Matos, who will go as his No.2.Feyenoord manager Arne Slot 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, 45, set to move into Klopp’s seven-bedroom house on Merseyside.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe £4m mansion Formby boasts three lounges, a home cinema, an indoor swimming pool plus a landscaped garden and is owned by the Premier League club.Liverpool bought it from their former manager Brendan Rodgers after he had previously purchased it from legendary ex captain Steven Gerrard. More

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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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      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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      in Soccer

      Liverpool ace Luis Diaz ‘is Barcelona’s top summer transfer target’ as winger ‘dreams’ of playing for Spanish giants

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      BARCELONA are lining up a move for Liverpool’s Luis Diaz this summer, a report claims.The winger has been key in Jurgen Klopp’s squad since his £50million arrival from Porto in 2022.Barcelona are reportedly lining up a move for Diaz this summerCredit: GettyDiaz, 27, has made 97 appearances for the Reds, scoring 24 goals and adding 13 assists.The 47-cap Colombian international has started in 31 of Liverpool’s 36 Premier League games this season.And according to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona are keen to sign a winger this summer, with Diaz their top target.Despite the club’s financial struggles, the report suggests that the Catalan giants remain determined to bolster their squad.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe club’s pursuit of Diaz is a strategic move to strengthen their left wing.Diaz has emerged as their top choice, but they are also interested in Nico Williams from Athletic Bilbao, RB Leipzig’s Dani Olmo and Porto’s Pepe.Xavi’s side are convinced that Diaz’s style of play is ideal for their tactical set-up and are actively devising strategies to secure his services.For Diaz, a switch to Barcelona would fulfil a lifelong dream, which his father has echoed in the past.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe report adds Diaz’s chances of moving are boosted by Klopp leaving the club at the end of the season and to be replaced by expected successor Arne Slot.Diaz’s contract runs until 2027, yet an offer from Catalonia could influence his future at the club.Watch Gary Neville’s brilliant reaction to Aston Villa equaliser against Liverpool on live TV as fans beg ‘meme that’Barcelona have been trying to find ways to overcome their economic challenges, including the sale of future television rights revenues to private companies.According to the report, the club’s strategy for bolstering their squad this summer hinges on complying with La Liga’s Financial Fair Play regulations and salary caps, to allow them to spend more.The increase in spending capacity is to be supported by new sponsorship agreements with Nike and the selling of shares in Barca Studios – the club’s in-house production company.Barcelona are also set to sell some of their key stars to cover the cost of transfers this summer. More