Liverpool CEO Billy Hogan has claimed Jurgen Klopp’s decision to stand down as manager was a ‘seismic decision’, but also the ‘right’ one.
Klopp announced back in January he would leave Anfield at the conclusion of the 2023/24 season, citing burnout and fatigue among his chief reasons for walking away.
Though he has been linked with various roles since departing Liverpool – including the England and United States’ head coach jobs – Klopp has remained true to his word that he would take at least a year out of the game.
Klopp won seven major trophies during his nine-year stay at Liverpool and helped transform the club back into the global superpower they used to be.
But in an interview with BBC Sport, Hogan looked at the positives of Klopp’s decision, believing the club can benefit from a ‘reset’ and the German will endure a needed rest.
“[Klopp leaving has] provided an opportunity for a reboot or reset and maybe to look at how things operate going forward,” Hogan said.
“Jurgen departing was a seismic decision but clearly the right decision for him and his family, so by extension the right decision for the club.
“He was very clear about leaving the club in a better place than where he found it and I think he has done that. The timing of his announcement gave us an opportunity to go through a proper process.”
Liverpool have implemented a new internal structure following Klopp’s exit, with Arne Slot drafted in from Feyenoord under a ‘head coach’ title as opposed to manager.
Richard Hughes has also joined from Bournemouth as sporting director, while club owners FSG have welcomed back his predecessors, Michael Edwards and Julian Ward, in new senior roles.
What we know
- Jurgen Klopp announced decision to leave Liverpool in January
- Arne Slot brought in as head coach in new footballing structure
- Club CEO Billy Hogan embracing opportunity for Reds to ‘reset’.