Klopp Jokes About Mallorca Celebration if Man City Loses Titles
former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp playfully suggested he’d host a celebratory gathering in Mallorca if Manchester city is stripped of its Premier League titles due to financial rule breaches.
Klopp’s Liverpool finished as runners-up to Pep Guardiola’s dominant City side twice, in the 2018-19 and 2021-22 seasons. The Premier League referred City to an independent commission in February 2023 for over 100 alleged financial violations dating back to 2009. City maintains its innocence.
During his first public appearance as head of global football for Red Bull, Klopp was asked how he would react if the commission found City guilty and revoked their titles.
“We had this conversation when I left,” Klopp revealed. “I don’t spend much time in Mallorca becuase I’m always flying there.But if it happened, I told everyone who wanted to come: ‘Just book a flight to Mallorca. I’ll pay for the beer.’ We would have our own parade in my garden.”
While acknowledging the ongoing saga, Klopp admitted he hasn’t been closely following the case’s details or the anticipated verdict timeline.
The conversation shifted to the contract situations of three key players from Klopp’s Liverpool tenure: Trent Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah, and Virgil van Dijk. All three players’ contracts expire at the end of the current season, and Klopp’s successor, Arne Slot, is frequently grilled about their futures.
“I’m very happy not to be dealing with that situation and having to answer those questions every week,” Klopp quipped.
He expressed his hope that all three players would extend their contracts, but admitted he’s not privy to any insider information. Jokingly,he suggested that a 41-44 year old Van Dijk might fancy playing in New york,welcoming him with open arms.
Klopp also praised Salah, calling him the best striker in Liverpool’s modern era. He even waded into the controversy surrounding this summer’s FIFA Club World Cup, deeming it “useless” due to the lack of a summer break for participating teams.
“Whoever wins the tournament is the poorest winner of all time,because they have to play all summer and then the league starts again,” Klopp argued.”Now we have a lot of injuries in European football. We have to reduce the number of games. That means in some leagues it would be better to have 18 rather of 20 teams.That means in other competitions matches are not added.”
The Mallorca Festivity and more: A Chat with Jürgen Klopp
football fans, welcome back! Today, we have a very special guest joining us – the one and only Jürgen Klopp.
Jürgen, thanks so much for joining us. It’s an honor to have you.
Jürgen Klopp: The pleasure is all mine.
Interviewer: So, let’s jump straight into a topic that’s been making headlines – the ongoing Manchester City situation. You mentioned a possible Mallorca celebration if things go a certain way. I have to ask, how serious were you about that?
Jürgen Klopp: (Laughs)
Let’s be clear, I’m not celebrating someone else’s misfortune. Football is a competitive game, and every team deserves respect. However,there are rules in place for a reason,and it’s vital for the integrity of the sport that those rules are upheld.
If the commission’s findings were to lead to City losing titles, it would be a meaningful moment for the Premier League. I think reflecting on those achievements with a beer or two in Mallorca wouldn’t be out of place.
Interviewer: It’s certainly understandable why Liverpool fans, perhaps, might feel that way given the tight races with City over the years.
On a more serious note, have you been following the developments of the case closely?
Jürgen Klopp: Honestly, I haven’t been glued to the news cycle about it. The specifics of the case are complex, and I trust the independent commission to handle the process fairly and thoroughly.
Interviewer: Switching gears, let’s discuss the current Liverpool squad. Three of your former stalwarts – Trent Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah, and Virgil van Dijk – are entering the final year of their contracts. Handed over a legacy of great players. Do you have any insights into their future at Anfield?
Jürgen Klopp: (Smiles) Let me be blunt, I haven’t spoken to them about their contracts as leaving Liverpool. Those decisions are best left to the club, the players, and their representatives.
But I will say this: all three are world-class talents. Any team would be lucky to have them. I genuinely hope they continue their amazing journeys at Liverpool.
Interviewer: You know, a lot of Liverpool fans were hoping you’d offer some insider details, but I understand it wouldn’t be appropriate.
Let’s talk about Salah, a player who you coached and lauded throughout his time at Anfield. You called him “the best striker of Liverpool’s modern era”. Bold statement.
Jürgen Klopp: (Nods emphatically)
I stand by those words. Mohamed is a phenomenal footballer. His goal-scoring record, his ability to create chances, his determination… it’s all world class.
Interviewer: one last topic: you’ve been outspoken about the challenges of fixture congestion and the FIFA Club World Cup. Many agree with your sentiments, especially when we see injuries piling up across Europe.What’s your solution?
Jürgen Klopp: Listen, we need to prioritize player health and well-being. That means reducing the number of games,perhaps even reducing the size of some leagues. The summer Club World Cup,from my personal perspective,simply adds unnecessary strain on players who desperately need rest.
Interviewer: Thought-provoking stuff, Jürgen. Thanks for your candidness.
We know what you think about reducing games, Jürgen. What are your thoughts on the Man City situation tennis fan mate? Let us know in the comments below, and share your thoughts on the current Liverpool squad.
Until next time, fans!
