05 February 2024 , 09:02
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Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool departure is in part down to a belief that the players no longer need him like they once did, according to reports.
The German produced a shock when he confirmed several weeks ago that he would leave Anfield in the summer after almost nine years at the helm. His team remain as competitive as ever with Klopp quickly getting them back on track after last season's struggles.
They took their toll on the manager, who oversaw a midfield overhaul in the summer. Now, despite this new-look Liverpool being in its infancy Klopp acknowledges that they have hit new heights far quicker than he expected and he can walk away with a legacy to be proud of, reports the Telegraph.
If the Reds had struggled to get up to speed and remained some way off the leading pack, that may have motivated Klopp to remain in his post for a bit longer, especially as his contract tied him down until 2026.
Last term it dawned on the German that he was bulletproof. Despite their struggles, which at one point saw them down in tenth, before eventually finishing fifth, Klopp was never in the firing line. The owners never thought about moving him on and he retained the affection of the Anfield crowd. His only exit route would be one he decided.
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Even before the players were made aware of his exit there were those around Klopp who'd noticed a difference in his approach. Despite not knowing his plans to leave, someone on the training ground was heard saying "he is managing like it is his last year".
Some have also clocked how the German appears to be managing in a slightly different way. He's been bolder and riskier with his team selection and, even more than usual, has been looking to embed academy graduates into the first-team picture. Conor Bradley is an example.
Those around the German have noticed a change in his style this term (Offside via Getty Images)When Klopp informed Fenway Sports Group president Michael Gordon in November about his decision to leave there was no indication. The German had asked for extra time at that meeting to discuss an important topic and Gordon inevitably asked if there was any chance he'd change his mind.
When he was told no planning began for the next phase of Liverpool's history. Klopp kept his secret for several months but it became obvious he had to break it to the squad when his coaching staff were told and began plotting their next moves, which meant the truth was always going to come out.