Liverpool legend Mark Lawrenson believes that Jurgen Klopp is “up there” with iconic coaches like Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger of Arsenal.
In a video explanation, Klopp revealed last Friday that he will be departing the Reds at the end of the season.
As Klopp aims to add to the six major trophies he has won during his time at Anfield, Liverpool are presently leading the Premier League, competing in the Carabao Cup final, moving on to the Europa League knockout round and being in the fifth round of the FA Cup.
Lawrenson believes that Klopp will “get a statue” and should be on par with Ferguson and Wenger.
Lawrenson told Paddy Power: “Jürgen Klopp is up there with Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsène Wenger. Nine years ago, when you took the job, if someone said that he would still be there after nine years, you would’ve said no chance – it’s the Premier League.
“At the top, if you lose three or four games, your P45 arrives with your next pay slip. He’s been a different kind of manager, but I’d put him alongside Bill Shankly, Kenny Dalglish and Bob Paisley. He’ll get a statue – he is some manager.”
Lawrenson added: “I don’t think Jürgen Klopp will go down as greater than Kenny Dalglish – there’s a reason why he’s called King Kenny.
“Klopp has earned the right to decide when he leaves, and I think this is a really great way of doing it. FSG have known since November, so behind the scenes they’ll have a few people lined up to take the job. It’s strange – but people are getting used to it.”
To compare Klopp to Sir Alex Ferguson is an insult to the legendary Scottish manager. Klopp cannot be “up there” with the legendary United manager.
A manager who has won just one Premier League title should not be compared to the manager who has won 13 Premier League titles. It makes no sense.