In a highly anticipated move, Feyenoord coach Arne Slot has confirmed that he will replace the legendary Jurgen Klopp as Liverpool manager at the end of the current season. Klopp, who has been in charge of the Reds since October 2015, will depart after a remarkably successful reign that saw him guide the club to numerous major honors, including the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, and two EFL Cups.
After Klopp’s announcement in January that he would be stepping down, several high-profile managers were linked with the Liverpool job. However, in April, BBC Sport reported that Slot had emerged as the frontrunner, with a compensation deal worth up to £9.4 million agreed with Feyenoord to secure his services.
Arne Slot Bids Emotional Farewell to Feyenoord
Speaking ahead of his final match as Feyenoord manager against Excelsior on Sunday, Slot expressed his gratitude towards the club and its supporters. “Until now, I was not thinking about this being the build-up to my last match, but that starts coming now,” he said. “I understand that good results help, but it is very nice to feel that people really are thinking it’s a pity that I’m leaving.”
Arne Slot, who led Feyenoord to the 2022-23 Eredivisie title and has won the Dutch Cup this season, took time to bid farewell to those close to him at the club. “That is why I’m a little bit late now [for the news conference], because I wanted to say goodbye to some people personally and take time for them, more than just shaking hands,” he explained.
Klopp’s Emotional Farewell to Liverpool
Meanwhile, Jurgen Klopp also addressed the media ahead of his final game in charge of Liverpool, a Premier League clash against Wolves on Sunday. The German tactician, who has left an indelible mark on the club and the city of Liverpool, reflected on his nine-year tenure with a mix of gratitude and emotion.
“My time here has been super influential in so many ways. I know everything about this place,” Klopp said. “I take fantastic memories with me and friendships forever. The older you get, time slips through your fingers, and you look back and think, that was great. I will not forget a minute or a day of this time.”
Klopp’s Lasting Legacy in Liverpool
Klopp’s impact on Liverpool extends far beyond the pitch, with the city embracing him as one of its own. “I have met the best people I have ever met and I have worked for the best club I could have imagined,” he said. “In a wonderful, very special city. Nothing is perfect nowadays but the people in this city are as close to that as possible.”
Expressing his deep connection with the city, Klopp added, “I am completely at peace. It is wonderful to know I spent a huge amount of my life here. I don’t imagine that the club will need my help in the future but I have got the key of the city. I’m sure for some people that is rather funny, but if the city needs me I am there. I want to be helpful in whatever way.”
Feyenoord Pays Tribute to Arne Slot’s Tenure
As Arne Slot prepares to embark on a new chapter at Liverpool, Feyenoord paid tribute to their outgoing manager on social media. “The Arne Slot era is coming to an end. Let’s enjoy the last moments,” the club stated, acknowledging the impact Slot has had during his three-year tenure.
While Liverpool have remained silent on the announcement, the club’s supporters will undoubtedly be eager to welcome their new manager and usher in a fresh era of success under Slot’s leadership.
