“When I departed Dortmund 9 years ago, my desired destination was Manchester United. I never anticipated coaching Liverpool. However, I was surprised by what unfolded. It’s been kept under wraps, but it’s time for the fans to be informed.” – Jurgen Klopp discusses why he didn’t end up coaching Manchester United before joining Liverpool, despite acknowledging that he made a significant error.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp once declined an opportunity to join Manchester United before eventually joining their rivals, Liverpool, in 2015. Klopp announced today that he will step down as Liverpool manager at the end of the season after nearly eight years in charge at Anfield.

While his decision came as a surprise to many in the football world, Klopp admitted that he was “running out of energy” and felt it was the right time to depart. Despite this, Klopp has enjoyed significant success at Liverpool, guiding them to their sixth Champions League title in 2019 and their first-ever Premier League title a year later.

Klopp’s exceptional coaching prowess and managerial skills have left a lasting impact on Liverpool fans, but the situation could have been different. Back in 2013, when he was managing Borussia Dortmund, Klopp was approached by then-Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson about succeeding him at Old Trafford, according to Sky Sports.

However, Klopp declined the role at that time, citing timing issues, before eventually joining Liverpool two years later.

“We spoke,” Klopp revealed. “We didn’t speak extensively, but for me, it was significant. The conversation was a tremendous honor, to be honest. However, I couldn’t depart from Dortmund.”

“In April, you’re in the midst of planning for the next season. You have players lined up, decisions to make, and suddenly you’re not there anymore? That doesn’t align with my principles. It’s not how I operate,” Klopp explained.

“I didn’t receive any concrete offer from United, but even if I had, I couldn’t have entertained it. I had to see through my commitments at Dortmund before considering anything else. Perhaps that’s not the most strategic approach, but it’s my way. It was the same at Mainz.”

Manchester United ultimately appointed David Moyes, who lasted only 10 months before being dismissed. The trajectory of events could have been vastly different if Klopp had joined United, a scenario for which Liverpool fans will undoubtedly be thankful never materialized.