Jurgen Klopp may no longer be managing Liverpool, but he didn’t hold back his opinion on current situations involving the former players he managed.
During a presentation of his unveiling as global head of soccer at Red Bull, Klopp said he believes Liverpool should renew Mohamed Salah’s contract following a stand-off with owners Fenway Sports Group (FSG). Klopp even went as far as describing Salah as one of the “biggest strikers Liverpool have had in modern times,” and he would be correct. Salah is their top goalscorer in the Premier League era by far, leading with 173 goals, far past Robbie Fowler in 2nd with 128 goals.
“I hope he stays. He is the biggest striker LFC had in the modern times, and obviously there were other good strikers. But fantastic player, fantastic human being, outstanding athlete. Best ambassador Egypt could have.”
Salah’s contract at Liverpool expires at the end of the season, meaning he would be free to sign with another club. While inside sources have insisted that Salah’s preference is to remain at Liverpool, there has so far been no official announcement or acknowledgment of any progress. The opposite, in fact. Salah has publicly said multiple times this season that this is his last year at Liverpool.
Klopp also talked about Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose contracts are also set to expire at the end of this season.
“I’m so happy I’m not in charge in that situation and have to answer these questions now… My point of view? I’d love all three to extend. I don’t know, (Liverpool) didn’t tell me,”
Virgil I’m pretty sure will have 5 more years at Liverpool, and between 41 and 44 join Red Bull New York. We’d welcome him with open arms, no problem!”
