New Liverpool manager Arne Slot has revealed that he requested a delay in his official announcement to honour outgoing manager Jurgen Klopp.
In April, reports surfaced that the Merseyside club had reached an agreement with Feyenoord for Slot to take over at the end of the season, succeeding Klopp.
Slot confirmed the news in May, and Liverpool officially announced that he would assume the role of head coach starting in June.
During his first interview with the club’s media earlier today, Slot elaborated on his decision to delay the announcement.
The Dutchman emphasised that this decision was made out of respect for Klopp, whose farewell was a deeply significant and emotional event for the club.
Slot explains reason behind his delayed announcement
During his first interview with the club’s media earlier today, Slot elaborated on his decision to delay the announcement.
He emphasised that this decision was made out of respect for Klopp, whose farewell was a deeply significant and emotional event for the club.
Slot wanted to ensure that Klopp and the departing personnel received the recognition they deserved without his arrival overshadowing their moment.
He said (quotes via Liverpool.com):
“I think it is, because of a few reasons. First and foremost, maybe the farewell of Jürgen, which was really special from what I saw. It was on the same day I left Feyenoord as well but I did see a few things and afterwards there was even a few more farewells from what I saw, so I think it was fair to him and to the club and to the supporters to wait a bit and then to come in.”
This respectful gesture has already earned Slot admiration from Liverpool fans as he prepares for the challenging task of succeeding Klopp.
Klopp, who managed Liverpool for eight years, won numerous accolades including the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League, and his departure marked the end of an era for the club.