Rafa Benítez has praised Jürgen Klopp following his announcement that he will Liverpool at the end of the season. The former Reds boss also hinted he may have an inside track on the club’s search for a new manager.
Klopp confirmed on Friday that he plans to step down from his role at the end of the current campaign. He will bring an end to almost nine years at Anfield, which has seen Liverpool’s fortunes revived.
The Reds remain in the hunt for four trophies this season, including the Premier League title as Klopp’s side leads the way, having gone past the halfway point in the campaign. The German of course ended Liverpool’s 30-year wait for a league title back in 2020, having led them to a sixth European crown the year before.
Benítez, now Celta Vigo boss, is still closely linked to Liverpool, having served as manager between 2004 and 2010, during which time he also claimed a Champions League title. The Spaniard’s connections have enabled him to lift the lid somewhat on Klopp’s impending exit.
“I have an advantage, which is that I have people in Liverpool and also people at the club, so more or less, I know how it has happened,” Benítez told reporters (via beIN SPORTS) I only have positive words about Klopp, because he is my friend and I have a good relationship with him.
“He has done and is doing an enormous job. Everything I can say about Klopp and Liverpool is positive.
“I know something else from inside, and it has more merit than being there. He goes and speaks up, giving the club time to re-organize, which, from another perspective, is also very German, because they do notify in advance, so it is not a shock.
“Let’s hope Liverpool will do well for now and when another coach comes too. I hope the best for the club.”
