The former Liverpool manager says a return to manage Liverpool is conceivable.
The German coach, who left Liverpool in 2024, indicated that a future comeback is a possibility. The 58-year-old, post a game-changing nine-season tenure that included Champions League success and ending the club's long wait for three decades, now holds positions overseeing worldwide football for Red Bull and as an advisor to Germany's league body.
Fan Sentiment and His Frank Comments
They secured the league title in the previous campaign, though countless followers holding him in high esteem would welcome the idea of his potential comeback. In a wide-ranging interview, he shared with Steven Bartlett: “I declared I will never coach a different club on English soil. Which implies should it be the Reds...absolutely. In theory, it could happen.”
“At 58 years old, which suggests I could make the decision down the line, who knows. Do I have to make the decision today? Then I will not coach again. Luckily, I don’t have to do that. I'll simply watch what the future brings.”
What Would Lure Him Back?
Questioned regarding the specific conditions would need to occur to bring him back to management, he confessed he was not instantly drawn toward coming back. “It's unclear to me, I love what I do right now,” he stated. “I don’t miss coaching; I avoid standing during downpours through long matches; I'm glad to skip press conferences multiple times weekly or constant media duties weekly.
“The locker room isn't missed as a dressing room, yet sharing a meal with the players talking freely, that’s nice. Success was frequent thus frequently a very good mood around the place. I still have Virgil [Van Dijk’s] laugh ringing in my ears for example.”
Praise for His Successor
He spoke highly regarding Arne Slot, praising him for the tweaks which secured the championship last term. The team has suffered a string of losses in every contest after a summer spending spree, but he rubbished the suggestion of it representing the start of a downward turn.
“[Liverpool have] a top-class attacker in Flo[rian] Wirtz, critics will regret with negative comments. He’s an incredible talent. [Hugo] Ekitike, incredible player. This is a well-built well-judged squad. Fans shouldn't fret regarding the Reds, they'll bounce back.”
Heartfelt Words for the Late Forward
He shared movingly about the death of the Portuguese star, whom he brought in in 2020, and the effect at the club. Jota lost his life in a vehicle collision together with his sibling recently.
“Who can fill the void of somebody like Diogo? It goes beyond his footballing ability, his personality mattered. It's hard to picture the squad missing him. I find it difficult to discuss on this topic. A profound tragedy for all the boys as well. Not a single person might employ it to justify results but it is the situation. Being in that space where his spirit remains. Coping with it emotionally is challenging. Overwhelming.”
