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Liverpool FC | 2021/22 Season

Liverpool: Jurgen Klopp contract not 'decisive' in Mohamed Salah & Sadio Mane futures

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp says his new contract will not be "decisive" in whether Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane extend theirs.

On Thursday Klopp extended his contract by two years until 2026, while the deals of forwards Salah and Mane run out next summer.

Asked about the impact it could have on the future of Salah and Mane, Klopp said: "That is a question for the boys what it means to them. But it's all fine. My relationship with both is great."

Klopp said: "In life, there are more things to think about than who the manager is, but knowing who the manager and coaching staff are is an important thing.

"If it is a positive sign for the boys, then great, but I don't think this will be the one decisive thing for whatever decision they have to make. It's their own life.

"We just wanted to guarantee that everyone who wants to be here knows what he can expect."

Salah has said he would like to stay at Liverpool and recently said "it's not everything about the money".

Forward Roberto Firmino and midfielder Naby Keita's contracts also run out next summer.

Liverpool, who trail Premier League leaders Manchester City by one point with five games remaining, travel to Newcastle on Saturday.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/61268859
 
Klopp: We've never struggled to sign players

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp insists he has never struggled to bring in the players he wanted despite working to certain financial restrictions.

The club's net spend since the German took charge in October 2015 is around £133m - considerably less than most of their rivals.

That has been achieved by some canny signings and also clever and lucrative sales of fringe players, while the departure of Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona for in January 2018 supplemented the purchases of Virgil Van Dijk, Fabinho and Alisson Becker.

Klopp admits under Fenway Sports Group's ownership they have to operate differently to the likes of Manchester City, Chelsea and Manchester United but that does not necessarily mean their own approach is detrimental to their ambitions - as has been proved by winning the Champions League and Premier League in back-to-back seasons.

"I cannot remember that we struggled to get players in that we wanted to get in," said Klopp.

"Phil (Coutinho) was the last one (Liverpool lost against their wishes) probably but that always can happen.

"I know from outside it is always 'Sign him, sign him, sign him' but we were always there slightly different, we tried it a different way signing players obviously.

"I can't remember the last time we struggled talking to a player: that doesn't mean they all come but it wasn't that we were not sexy enough or shiny enough."
 
Top of the league again after a hard-fought 1-0 away win at Newcastle.

Superb result that.
 
Brilliant gritty win from Liverpool.

Newcastle away at lunchtime had banana skin written all over it, but Liverpool prevailed quite comfortably in the end.

Liverpool might end up being the best league runners-up team ever…unless City drop a couple of points!
 
Whether you love Liverpool or loathe them, we are all wondering the same thing now - will they win one, two, three… or all four trophies this season?

With less than a month left, an unprecedented quadruple no longer seems an impossible dream. In fact, even with only the Carabao Cup secured so far, the Reds can already claim they are closer to it than any English side has managed before.

Many have tried too. Since it first became achievable in 1960, there have been 120 other attempts by 15 clubs to become champions of England, conquer Europe and win the FA Cup and League Cup in the same campaign.

We have seen three different trebles from those teams and 17 more did a double of some kind. But, date-wise, no side has got this far into the season with their hopes still alive of an amazing clean sweep.

When English clubs have come closest to winning the quadruple (by date)
Rank/season Team PL/Div 1 FA Cup League Cup CL/EC Bid over
1. 2021-22* Liverpool 2nd* F* Won SF* 3 May*
2. 2006-07 Chelsea 2nd Won Won SF 1 May
3. 2008-09 Man Utd Won SF Won F 19 Apr
=4. 2018-19 Man City Won Won Won QF 17 Apr
=4. 2020-21 Man City Won SF Won F 17 Apr
6. 1960-61 Burnley 4th SF SF QF 15 Mar

*Liverpool's bid will last at least this long. If they beat Villarreal in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final on 3 May, their attempt will be alive until they play Chelsea in the FA Cup final on 14 May.

You may think there is a glaring omission in the table above. Manchester United's 1998-99 Treble of Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup was historic in its own right, and is rightly seen as the greatest trophy haul by an English team of any era.

But Sir Alex Ferguson's side did not even get within six months of a quadruple because they went out of the League Cup to Tottenham in the quarter-finals on 2 December 1998.

That meant no-one was talking about an Old Trafford clean sweep by Christmas that year, let alone trumpeting about it the following spring. Although, like Manchester City in 2019 and Liverpool in 1984, United still had plenty to celebrate then.

Rather than their more famous Treble winners, the United team that came closest to all four trophies was their 2009 side, which won the Premier League and League Cup.

They made it to within three wins of a quadruple but lost to Everton in the FA Cup last four and Barcelona in the Champions League final - and had to settle for 'only' two in the end.

At the moment, Liverpool have just the one trophy in the bag.

This is the Reds' 24th attempt at a quadruple in the 47 seasons it has been possible since the League Cup was established in 1960-61 - the joint-most with United, who were denied an attempt in 1999-2000 when they did not take part in the FA Cup.

While Liverpool won one of the required trophies in seven of those seasons, did a double of some kind in four more and managed one treble of the league title, European Cup and League Cup in 1984, until this campaign they had never even reached March still in with a chance of all four.

The five times Liverpool came closest to the quadruple (by date) before this season
Rank/season PL/Div 1 FA Cup League Cup CL/EC Bid over
1.1982-83 Won 5R Won QF 20 Feb
2.1981-82 Won 5R Won QF 13 Feb
3.1983-84 Won 4R Won Won 29 Jan
4. 1980-81 5th 4R Won Won 24 Jan
5. 2004-05 5th 3R F Won 18 Jan
The club's other recognised treble, of 2000-01, is a notable achievement too, but does not count as a quadruple attempt because they were not in the Champions League that season. Liverpool won the Uefa Cup, FA Cup and League Cup, while finishing third in the league.

As remarkable as the Reds' season has been up to this point, it is the amount of silverware they eventually collect that will decide how it will be remembered. Not how long they had a chance of winning everything or how many games away from glory they ended up.

Just ask Chelsea about that.

Until this week, Jose Mourinho's 2007 side had stayed in contention for the quadruple longer than any other English club.

That was only 15 years ago, but it has already been largely forgotten - and was even overlooked by many at the time. It is a timely warning of how quickly Liverpool's quest could unravel from here.

Excitement is building at Anfield and far beyond with every victory by Jurgen Klopp's side, who were told last week they would become 'immortal' if they can achieve the feat.

Yet there was no fanfare for Chelsea in 2007, when they became the first English side to make it into May with the League Cup in the bag and still chasing glory on the three other fronts.

How the top of the Premier League looked with four games to go in 2006-07: 1st Man Utd, 2nd Chelsea
Chelsea's situation then was actually extremely similar to Klopp's task now. With four league games to go, the Blues were three points behind Premier League leaders Manchester United, not one. But, like Liverpool now, they were already safely into the FA Cup final and had just won the first leg of their Champions League semi-final too.

The backdrop to their bid was very different, however. Newspaper reports about Chelsea at that time did, occasionally, mention their quadruple chances. But instead of celebrating Mourinho's achievements and wondering how much his team could win, the media was mostly speculating about whether he would keep his job beyond the end of the campaign.

Rather than being asked repeatedly about a clean sweep - which, by the way, Mourinho thought was possible right until the end - a rumoured fall-out with then-owner Roman Abramovich meant he was being continually questioned about his own future.

Slightly different then to Klopp signing a new Anfield contract last week - and the unrest behind the scenes clearly didn't help Mourinho.

Liverpool keeper Pepe Reina saves from Chelsea's Arjen Robben during the penalty shootout that decided the 2007 Champions League semi-final. The Reds won it 4-1
The end of the quadruple dream: Arjen Robben and Geremi missed for the Blues in the penalty shootout that decided Chelsea's Champions League semi-final against Liverpool on 1 May 2007, and the Reds won it 4-1
His side's title challenge foundered in the next set of fixtures. Eventual champions United recovered from being 2-0 down with 30 minutes left to beat Everton 4-2 and opened up a five-point lead with three games to play - after Chelsea could only draw 2-2 with Bolton on the same day.

Their quadruple bid was gone for good a couple of days later when Liverpool hit back in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final and ended up progressing on penalties after a 1-1 aggregate draw.

City have led the Premier League for 147 out of 148 days since 4 December. Their remaining league games are against Newcastle (h), Wolves (a), West Ham (a) and Aston Villa (h). Liverpool must play Tottenham (h), Aston Villa (a), Southampton (a) and Wolves (h)
Mourinho did have the sizeable consolation of winning the FA Cup a couple of weeks later to complete a domestic cup double in 2007, but those stories that he was on the brink proved correct as he made his first exit from Stamford Bridge later that September.

At least he went out with a bang.

Multiple successes in that manner were relatively rare in English football until the expansion of the Champions League in the late 1990s offered more opportunities for a quadruple - and 12 of the past 20 seasons have seen one team win at least two of the required trophies.

This time, however, the silverware could still be shared around. Of the four English teams who had a quadruple chance at the beginning of the campaign, only Manchester United can be sure the keys to their trophy cabinet will not be needed this month.

What happened to the English teams chasing a quadruple this season?
Possible trophies Team PL/Div 1 FA Cup League Cup CL/EC Bid over
4 Liverpool 2nd* F* Won SF* 3 May*
2 Man City 1st* SF 4R SF* 27 Oct
1 Chelsea 3rd* F* F QF 13 Apr
0 Man Utd 6th* 4R 3R L16 22 Sep
*So far
Manchester City are not just trying to deny Liverpool a clean sweep, they are chasing their own double of the Champions League and English League title - a feat managed only twice before. Likewise, Chelsea are looking to beat the Reds and lift the FA Cup when they meet on 14 April.

Their quadruple chances are long since over, but it is not inconceivable City and Chelsea could still end up with more to show for their season than Liverpool.

Before the Premier League and Champions League era began in 1992, Burnley went closest to a quadruple, in 1960-61 - the first season four trophies were up for grabs in England - when they made it as far as 15 March before losing to Hamburg in the quarter-finals of the European Cup.

Back then, quadruple opportunities were far more limited - the European Cup was restricted to just the league champions or holders and, for eight out of 10 seasons between 1961 and 1971, the clubs who qualified did not enter the League Cup.

There was no chance of completing it between 1985 and 1991 either, as English clubs were barred from Europe for five years, and league champions Liverpool served an extra year's suspension in 1990-91.

Since then, some great teams of the modern era have had a go at winning all four trophies - and United's Treble winners are not the only ones who have fallen short.

City's 'Centurions' - the Pep Guardiola side that broke the 100-point mark and set an all-time English top-flight record for most points in a single campaign in 2017-18 - had their bid ended by Wigan Athletic, of League One, in the FA Cup fifth round on 19 February.

Arsenal's legendary 'Invincibles' went the entire league campaign undefeated in 2003-04, but that was the only silverware they secured that season and their quadruple hopes were ended on 3 February by Middlesbrough, who beat them 3-1 on aggregate in the League Cup semi-finals.

Now it is Liverpool's turn. 'Immortals' or mere mortals? We are about to find out…

The 15 English teams who have tried for a quadruple - and how far they got
rank/club Attempts Best attempt? Bid ended?
1. Liverpool* 24 2021-22 3 May*
2. Chelsea 16 2006-07 1 May
3. Man Utd 24 2008-09 19 Apr
4. Man City** 12 2018-19 & 2020-21 17 Apr
5. Burnley 1 1960-61 15 Mar
6. Arsenal 21 2010-11 27 Feb
7. Nott'm Forest 3 1978-79 26 Feb
8. Tottenham 5 2018-19 24 Jan
9. Newcastle 3 1997-98 10 Dec
10. Leeds 4 1974-75 13 Nov
11. Aston Villa 2 1981-82 19 Jan
12. Blackburn 1 1995-96 29 Nov
13. Derby 2 1972-73 9 Oct
14. Leicester 1 2016-17 20 Sep
15. Everton 1 2005-06 24 Aug
* Liverpool's bid will last at least this long **Does not include delayed 2019-20 season

BBC
 
Jurgen Klopp insists Liverpool are taking nothing for granted ahead of Tuesday's decisive Champions League semi-final second leg at Villarreal.

The final obstacle in Liverpool's quest to reach a third Champions League final in five seasons sees them head to Spain with a 2-0 advantage after last week's comprehensive first-leg victory at Anfield.

Despite holding a commanding advantage, Klopp is under no illusions there is still a job to be done and is relishing the challenge that only Champions League semi-finals produce.

"We know that it is half-time," Klopp told his pre-match press conference. "In the best possible way we have to ignore the result from the first leg. If it were a cup game where only one game decided, and we had to go to Villarreal, we would try to win there.

"We know they will give all they have, that is absolutely clear. With all the things Unai said after the game… it's going to be a tough one but that is completely fine. Champions League semi-finals should be tough; we never expect them to be easy and this will not be easy. But we played a good game at home and we better play a good game there as well."

Klopp continued: "At this moment, a Champions League semi-final is the most important game you can play. Whatever happened in the last few weeks or will happen in the next few weeks is not important, for this moment is clear.

"You never know if you will reach a semi-final again or if we will ever have the chance again to go to the final, you never know. We have an exceptional team here and nothing is for granted. You need luck in moments and all these sorts of things, so you better treat it carefully and be ready, and we will be ready.

"We really want it, we want to be where we are, and we want to go to the final. If Villarreal is better than us and beat us with a result which qualifies them for the final then congratulations, that's it. But between now and then there are 95, or however many minutes to play, and I'm looking forward to it."

Villarreal boss Unai Emery has warned his players will make Liverpool suffer at the Estadio de la Ceramica after failing to lay on glove on the six-time European champions in last week's first leg.

Klopp is adamant Liverpool are prepared for such an examination in order to progress through their Champions League semi-final and reach the third final of his tenure on Merseyside.

"We have to be ready to suffer," Klopp added. "Not being a goal down - which can happen - but giving the game the right direction.

"A good example was Newcastle. The crowd was very passionate but we didn't let it happen, which was the biggest quality for this game. It wasn't a show of football brilliance. Of course we could have scored more goals but how clear-cut the performance was incredible.

"Yes we have to be emotional, ready to play the best game ever, but knowing it will not happen in moments. Suffering doesn't mean you suffer for long, you suffer and then you react."

Klopp added: "Maturity and experience are very important, but they are not the only decisive things. You can be old and know everything about football but unable to play anymore, so that cannot be useful.

"Everything what we are will be required tomorrow night, that's it. We have to be ready to play a top, top game because they will go for us. They will high press, they will try to play much more football than we allowed them in the first game.

"Unai will for sure try to adapt a few things to our style. It will be really interesting. Maturity will be important but it's not the only thing."

Villarreal manager Unai Emery admits his side need to play the perfect game if they are to shock Liverpool to reach the club's first Champions League final.

The former Arsenal boss was reminded their opponents had lost just three of 56 matches in a quadruple-chasing season.

"I didn't want to hear those details but I did," he said. "It is a difficult task but we are working on the game. We need to play a perfect game.

"We need to find our excellence in certain things and maybe achieve something no one has achieved, which is this kind of comeback. We will try to find some weak spots, something that no one has done this season."

There was some positive news for Emery with striker Gerard Moreno, who missed the first leg, back after injury, although they will be missing former Bournemouth winger Arnaut Danjuma who is ill.

"Gerard trained with the rest of the group today," said the Villarreal boss. "I don't know to what extent he will be fit for contention. We will not take any risks."

"I really enjoyed the Liverpool-Villarreal first leg. Villarreal were massive underdogs, defending so deep in the 4-4-2 system. I thought highly of Liverpool and their persistence.

"Liverpool were doing the right things. Liverpool are a team who can win in different ways. They can outbox you; they can go toe to toe with you, punch for punch and they can be patient. Liverpool have demonstrated that in the last few years, they can wait, they can pass it around, they don't get panicky.

"I remember that game where they lost the title under Brendan Rodgers- they didn't have the experience to handle a different type of opponent. When Chelsea held back that day, they got very frustrated.

"I think it was a really good performance from Liverpool in the first leg, it was really professional. They should win that game, no doubt. Liverpool certainly [will qualify] - and that doesn't mean I don't respect Villarreal."

"Liverpool are seven games from a Quadruple - seven games from a quadruple. That is the closest I think that anybody will ever have been to a Quadruple. I might be wrong. Someone will probably prove me wrong, but I can't think of a time.

"If Liverpool were to do it that would be unprecedented. Unprecedented achievements. So they, along with Manchester City, are on the brink of greatness."
 
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp spoke to the media yesterday to preview the Champions League semi-final second leg at Villarreal.
Here are the key lines from his news conference:

Roberto Firmino is running again after his foot injury and will travel with the squad, but will not be fit to play.

Klopp expects Villarreal to “go with all they have” against Liverpool: “It was clear after last week’s game and from the weekend where they made eight changes and took the other two off at half-time. It will be tough but that’s completely fine. It’s the Champions League semi-final – it shouldn’t be easy.”

On Liverpool winning every away game in the Champions League this season: “In every game we’ve found ways to get the results. We haven’t won by sitting deep and counter-attacking. We have always tried to play like ourselves and we have to try again.”

He says his side are in fine form but are only concentrating on one game at a time: “We know that we are in the best possible shape. We are trying to keep everyone fit and in their rhythm. We have learned you win one game then maybe the next one but only if 100% focused on the first one. And for us, that’s Villarreal.”

He is expecting his team to be “ready to suffer” when needed: “We know that at points we will suffer – we could go behind, the crowd will be up after a big challenge, it could happen. Suffering doesn’t mean for long. It’s about how you react.”
 
Should be an easy win for Liverpool in the tie.
 
Slight hiccup but Klipps liverpool once again in a European Final.

If liverpool get city I think they might win but with Real you never know.
 
Jurgen Klopp admits reaching Champions League final 'feels like the first time' as Mohamed Salah eyes Real Madrid revenge

Jurgen Klopp said reaching his fourth Champions League final as a coach felt almost like a new experience as his Liverpool side came back from two goals down against Villarreal to secure a 5-2 aggregate win in their semi-final on Tuesday.

While the three-goal cushion may look comfortable, this was a test of Liverpool's nerve and powers of recovery as an awful first half by their standards saw their first-leg advantage wiped out by debut goals in the competition from Boulaye Dia and Francis Coquelin.

But the half-time introduction of £37.5m January signing Luis Diaz, who has reinvigorated 2022 for Klopp's side, changed the game - aided by a poor goalkeeping performance from the hosts' Geronimo Rulli.

Both Fabinho and Diaz's goals went through Rulli's legs, while the goalkeeper was beaten to the ball by Sadio Mane when he came charging out to leave the Senegalese forward with an unguarded net to seal the win on the night.

"It feels like the first in 20 (years)," Klopp, who led Borussia Dortmund to the final of the competition in 2013 and Liverpool in 2018 and 2019, told BT Sport. "It's outstanding, because we obviously made it a little tricky for ourselves, but we knew these kind of things could happen."

Liverpool head to the final in Paris to face either Real Madrid or Manchester City, who play their second leg in Madrid on Wednesday with City holding a slender 4-3 lead on aggregate.

Klopp's side were shocked by Villarreal's aggressive man-marking in the first half which took them out of their own pressing game, and the coach conceded that he struggled to find highlights from the opening 45 minutes to show his players.

"We knew what was wrong because it was obvious, but we didn't have a situation to show them where we got it right," Klopp explained.

"I said (to my staff) 'find one where we do it well and we can show it', and we come in and they said 'no, we don't have it'."

The introduction of Colombian winger Diaz at the break seemed to liven up Liverpool's attack.

"Obviously Luis, what a player he is, but it's not about who came on, it was about how we started to play," Klopp explained.

The 54-year-old coach said he had no preference for who his team would face in the final on May 28, saying "whoever it will be, it will be massive".

https://www.skysports.com/football/...ime-as-mohamed-salah-eyes-real-madrid-revenge
 
Frighteningly, this quadruple thing could actually happen.
 
Klopp on Firmino being ready for Tottenham: "I don't know, but he's ready for training. The foot thing meant he couldn't do a lot, but we have to make sure he has a couple of sessions.

"It might be possible but it might make more sense to train through the weekend."
 
<b>Liverpool 1-1 Tottenham</b>

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp cannot see Manchester City slipping up in the Premier League title race after his side dropped precious points at Anfield for the first time since October in a draw with Tottenham.

The result takes Liverpool top on goal difference but Pep Guardiola's side can move three points clear with three games remaining if they defeat Newcastle United on Sunday.

Son Heung-min swept the counter-attacking visitors in front after 56 minutes following a link-up between Harry Kane and Ryan Sessegnon and with the Liverpool defence disorganised.

Liverpool naturally flooded forward for an equaliser but it took a heavily deflected shot from Luis Diaz 16 minutes from time to pierce Spurs' packed defence and draw the home side level.

Spurs continued to defend with resolution after the equaliser and were also a threat on the break as they battled to take something from the game and enhance their top-four challenge.

"I can't see it," said Klopp when asked if City might drop points. "I wish I could think differently but I can't see it.

"My problem is not whether City smash Newcastle [on Sunday]. It's Aston Villa on Tuesday.

"We have a point more than before so that's good and it's massively better than when we were 1-0 down. That goal really counts. But it's not what we wanted, we have to deal with it and we will."

Liverpool at least maintained their unbeaten Premier League record - which now stretches to 16 games, including 13 wins and three draws - but time will tell how damaging this failure to beat Spurs will be as the title race reaches its climax.

Klopp's team has set magnificently high standards but it was inevitable they would not be able to find a way to win every time and they were up against a side brilliantly organised by visiting coach Antonio Conte.

Liverpool swarmed over Spurs from the start but once the early storm blew over they could not carve out many clear openings against a resolute defence, in which Cristian Romero was absolutely outstanding.

Virgil van Dijk struck the woodwork before the break - as did Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg - as Liverpool frequently threatened from set-pieces but Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane were kept largely quiet, and were after the break too.

Diaz was the main threat, as he arguably has since he arrived in January, and the Colombia winger deserved his goal even if it was helped by a big deflection off Rodrigo Bentancur.

Liverpool were roared forward by a Kop desperate for another piece of late Anfield drama but too many crosses went astray and too many moves foundered on the rock of the Spurs defence.

Klopp's side have relentlessly pursued City in the past two months knowing any slip-up would be damaging and after these dropped two points must now hope Guardiola's side lose rather than merely draw one of their remaining games in order to reel them in.

Conte once again showed his nous as a coach as he organised his players to execute a gameplan that frustrated Liverpool and which almost brought a memorable win.

Spurs had a rough ride early on as Liverpool, lifted by reaching the Champions League final and boosted by a buoyant Anfield, tore into the visitors but came through that and showed qualities that have been witnessed in patches since the Italian's arrival.

They were fiercely well-disciplined and their ability to rise to the occasion is proved by the fact they have now come through their four league meetings with Liverpool and Manchester City undefeated this season.

Spurs showed two sides to their game as they were outstanding in defence but also carried a serious threat on the break, creating enough chances to perhaps regret not getting three points.

Son's goal showed exactly what Spurs were all about as Kane controlled the ball brilliantly, passing up the chance to shoot and instead playing in Sessegnon, whose cut-back was finished off by the South Korea forward.

In the context of the chase for a place in the Champions League, Conte will curse how Hojbjerg passed up a golden opportunity in the dying seconds.

Nevertheless the performance will give them heart going into Thursday's potentially decisive north London derby at home to Arsenal.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/61281249
 
Bayern Munich are reportedly plotting a sensational swoop for Liverpool forward Sadio Mane this summer, according to Sky Germany.

While there has been no official dialogue between the two clubs, Bayern's sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic met the 30-year-old's agent over the weekend.

Mane is under contract at Anfield until 2023, but talks over a possible new deal have not yet been forthcoming, with Liverpool said to be focussing on tying up negotiations with Mo Salah - whose current terms also expire in 2023.

https://www.skysports.com/football/...fer-target-for-german-champions-bayern-munich
 
Incredible effort from Liverpool to keep on pushing Man City right up to the end of the season after the gap was huge earlier in the season.

Great squad!
 
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has confirmed his side will be without midfielder Fabinho for Saturday's FA Cup final against Chelsea.

The Brazilian came off with a hamstring injury in Tuesday's win at Aston Villa.

Fabinho will also miss the final two league games of the season, but Klopp hopes he will be fit in time for the Champions League final on 28 May.

"We can cope," Klopp said, when asked how the 28-year-old's absence would impact Liverpool's title hopes.

"We have to. Having him or not having him is a difference but it is all fine. That's normal stuff that happens. It's never in a position where you have 12 options, it's always in a position where you don't."

Klopp added: "There's a good chance that he will be available for the Champions League final."
 
Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk forced off injured for Liverpool in FA Cup final against Chelsea

Mohamed Salah was forced off with what looked to be a groin injury for Liverpool in the FA Cup final win against Chelsea, while Virgil van Dijk completed the 90 minutes but did not resurface for extra-time.

Salah sat down on the pitch just after the half-hour mark holding his groin, and despite getting himself back to his feet, walked off to be replaced by Diogo Jota - who has scored 23 goals for club and country this season.

Van Dijk was brought off before extra-time started, with Joel Matip coming on in his absence, and told ITV after the game: "We're going to check it out. I felt in the first half when I sprinted, I felt a twinge behind my knee, I played on.

"In the end, I can't risk it for the team and I need to trust Joel. Hopefully it will be fine."

Asked about both players' condition, Jurgen Klopp said: "I spoke to both of them after the game and both are really OK. All we know is that it's not a big thing but the next game is on Tuesday. I think they will both be fine."

Van Dijk seemed in good spirits after the game, dancing in the dressing room with the FA Cup while his team-mates sang his name.

Midfielder Fabinho missed out altogether with a hamstring injury sustained against Aston Villa midweek.

Liverpool went on to win the game 6-5 on penalties after a 0-0 draw in 120 minutes.

Klopp's side have key fixtures ahead with this year's Champions League final in Paris on May 28, as well as their remaining Premier League fixtures at Southampton on Tuesday and their final-day game against Wolves at Anfield on May 22.

The forward has scored 30 Liverpool goals this term, as well as two for Egypt, and is an instrumental part of the Reds' historic bid for a quadruple.

Back in February, the 29-year-old scored twice and assisted another in a 6-0 victory over struggling Leeds to take his goal involvements tally to 160 - a new record for an African player in the Premier League.

Salah is yet to commit his long-term future at Anfield, with negotiations over his contract situation ongoing - the Egypt international's current deal expires in 2023.

https://www.skysports.com/football/...for-liverpool-in-fa-cup-final-against-chelsea
 
Liverpool's Salah and Van Dijk out of Saints game

Liverpool's top scorer Mohamed Salah and defender Virgil van Dijk have been ruled out of Tuesday's crucial Premier League game at Southampton.

The pair went off during Saturday's FA Cup final win over Chelsea at Wembley - Salah with a groin problem, Van Dijk with a knee injury.

Reds boss Klopp is confident both will return for Sunday's season finale against Wolves at Anfield.

"The target is they could be involved again at the weekend," said Klopp.

"It's very positive. We're realistic about the Wolves game, but for tomorrow, [we'd] rather not."

Salah is currently the Premier League's top scorer with 22 goals this season.

Fabinho is out of Tuesday's game with a muscle injury while Andy Robertson, who had cramp on Saturday, is also a doubt.

Liverpool trail Premier League leaders Manchester City by four points, with the trip to Southampton their game in hand. Defeat at St Mary's Stadium would end their title chances.

Southampton pair Fraser Forster and Stuart Armstrong could be available this week, either for the visit of Liverpool or at Leicester on Sunday.

Both have been struggling with back and knee problems and only returned to training at the weekend.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/61389087
 
Liverpool battling hard to keep the Premier League title race alive at Southampton this evening.

1-1 after 35 minutes at the moment.
 
So many players missing yet they go to Southampton and win 2-1 and keep the Premier League title to the final game of the season.

Brilliant team.
 
Gutsy performance that. Great win.

To Sunday we go.
 
Jurgen Klopp says Liverpool fringe players like having 'Ferraris in the garage' after comeback win at Southampton

Jurgen Klopp said he was 'touched' by the performance of his fringe players in Liverpool's victory at Southampton, likening their quality to having 'Ferraris in the garage'.

The Liverpool boss had made nine changes to the team which beat Chelsea in a penalty shoot-out in Saturday's FA Cup final and was without injured pair Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk.

But after Nathan Redmond's early goal, Takumi Minamino and Joel Matip turned the match around to secure the win needed to take the Premier League title race to the final day.

Liverpool are just a point behind Manchester City ahead of Sunday's finale, when the Reds will host Wolves and City face Aston Villa at the Etihad Stadium. Klopp was full of pride for the performance of his much-changed team.

Minamino was making his first Premier League start of the season, while seven other players from the XI had under 10 league starts to their name this term.

"It's a bit overwhelming, it's really touching what the boys did," he told Sky Sports.

"I told them after the game, what I did to a few of them and had to do because of the situation, is pretty much a crime.

"That Takumi [Minamino] doesn't play more often, that Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, who is in outstanding shape and is not part of the squad very often, Harvey [Elliott] didn't play for a long time, Curtis [Jones] didn't play for a long time and all these boys deliver and deliver and deliver and it's unbelievable.

"Making nine changes and this kind of performance is exceptional. We would have much more problems if we'd played the guys who played 120 minutes on Saturday."

Klopp added in his post-match press conference: "After making nine changes, if it didn't work out it was my responsibility, now it worked out it's the boys' responsibility. I thought they did exceptionally well. Some incredible performances.

"I'm so happy about the performance it was a bit touching. Wow. These boys. It's like having Ferraris in the garage."

Dissecting the game, Klopp was particularly pleased with the resilience of his team after Redmond's opener on 13 minutes. If Liverpool had lost, City would have been crowned champions. But they battled back.

"I saw a group reaction to a blow [for the Southampton goal]," said Klopp. "I didn't see it back but thought it was a clear foul [in the build-up] and in these situations you can lose nerves but the boys kept going. We controlled the game. We calmed that atmosphere down, it became a normal game and not the game Southampton wanted.

"The last 10 minutes, we have to work on how we can play time down without getting into trouble but a deserved three points. Fantastic.

"It's really tough for the boys sometimes but whatever happens this year happens because of this group, it's exceptional and tonight they showed that again.

"I expect them to react like they react but it's not normal it's special. This group is really, really special."

https://www.skysports.com/football/...-the-garage-after-comeback-win-at-southampton
 
Amazing resilience would be the best runners up in EPL history hopefully they will make it count in Paris
 
Sadio Mane to Bayern Munich has been touted and one observer has predicted what will happen with a move potentially hinging on a second deal.

The Liverpool forward, 30, has found his groove at just the right time this season. While Mohamed Salah was unstoppable in the first half of the campaign, he has found it tougher since returning from AFCON.

Yet Liverpool’s potency in front of goal has not diminished with Mane and Luis Diaz picking up the slack.

His second half surge has helped put Liverpool in the running for a remarkable quadruple. The current score stands at two trophies down with two to go.

However, like Salah and Roberto Firmino, Mane’s contract at Anfield is also due to expire in 2023.

The Reds are understood to want the Senegalese to pen fresh terms. Indeed, transfer guru Fabrizio Romano recently shed light on Liverpool’s approach to contract talks.

But with the fabled front three all over 30 by the time next season beings, Liverpool’s American owners may be reluctant to hand out bumper new deals to all three.

Should Mane be the one sacrificed, Munich may be his next destination. Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg recently claimed Bayern’s interest in Mane is genuine.

But a move to Germany may be dependant on Robert Lewandowski first being moved on. The Polish hitman recently declared he won’t sign a new contract in Bavaria. His current deal expires in 2023.

McManaman predicts Sadio Mane, Lewandowski outcomes
Now, ex-Red Steve McMananan has predicted what will happen with Mane. McManaman too thinks Lewandowski and Mane’s futures could be intertwined.

“For me personally, I’m not worried about this move [Mane to Bayern] coming to fruition,” said McManaman (via the Express).

“Teams should be interested in the likes of Sadio Mané and Mohamed Salah. They’re playing really well and you’re talking about players who could be up for the Ballon d’Or come the end of the year. So I expect there to be interest from other clubs.

“I think getting Sadio Mané out of Liverpool this summer is nigh on impossible unless they pay a lot of money. So I’m not too worried to be honest.

“I’d be interested to see if Robert Lewandowski is allowed to go. Bayern Munich notoriously have never been open to the prospect of him leaving. He still has a year to go on his contract. Bayern may decide to keep him until his contract is up.

“Every year Robert Lewandowski is threatening to leave Bayern Munich and they never let him leave.

“We will wait and see whether they let him go this year at 33 years of age and whether they’re looking to bring Sadio Mané in as his replacement for an absolute fortune. I think it will be very difficult.”

Do Liverpool still need Mane?
The January arrival of Luis Diaz had the look of Liverpool’s decision-makers casting one eye to the future.

Diaz, 25, operates primarily on the left wing. He has wasted no time in showing there’ll be no drop off if Sadio Mane is to be moved on.

However, the pair’s form in 2022 has been so good that Jurgen Klopp has often played them together.

Indeed, Diaz has taken up his customary left wing role with Mane moving in field to occupy the central position.

Combined with Salah on the right wing, that triumvirate have caused defences all manner of problems and may be a taste of what’s to come next year.

As such, if any of Liverpool’s front three are to be moved on in the next 16 months, Roberto Firmino may be the odd man out.

https://www.msn.com/en-gb/sport/foo...pc=U531&cvid=fe53e63061944a14bbb17597ace0e3e5
 
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said he wished Steven Gerrard were playing instead of in the dugout for Aston Villa's match against Manchester City on the final day of the Premier League season.

Pep Guardiola's City have a one-point lead over Liverpool heading into Sunday's finale.

The Reds have to beat Wolves at home and hope City slip up against Villa to lift the trophy.

The involvement of Liverpool great Gerrard, now Villa manager, adds spice to the drama -- the former midfielder never won the league title in his trophy-laden career at Anfield.

"I can understand these kind of situations only by thinking myself in that role," Klopp said at his pre-match press conference on Friday.

"If I would play a game and could help (former clubs) Dortmund or could help Mainz, it would make for me extra motivation. But I don't play. And Stevie doesn't play – that's a shame.

"Much more a shame that Stevie is not playing than I'm not playing. Of course, we are all human beings and have these kind of things but Stevie will take it 100 percent serious, I'm sure, without me calling him or whatever.

"I don't have to. Probably the rest of the club did it already but I didn't."

Klopp's side are chasing an unprecedented quadruple after winning the League Cup and FA Cup, with a Champions League final to come against Real Madrid later this month.

But he said he was focused on his own team's match against Wolves at Anfield rather than City's game at the Etihad.

"We play to win and Aston Villa play to win, that's it," said the German manager.

"It's a difficult place to go and City is like this -- if you go there and are not at 100 percent you get five or six (scored against you) easily. If you are fully there, you have a chance to get a result, how it always is in football."

Victory parade

Klopp said he was proud of his team's season irrespective of whether they claim a record-equalling 20th league title on Sunday, with a victory parade booked for May 29, the day after the Champions League final.

"We have so many reasons to celebrate, to be honest," he said. "We don't know how many reasons but we have already enough reasons. It is enough to celebrate life.

"Of course, the Carabao (League) Cup, the FA Cup and whatever will come. And of course, that we didn't have the parade two years ago when we became champions (due to coronavirus restrictions) is not the reason but another reason."

Klopp also confirmed that Belgium striker Divock Origi, 27, would be leaving the club at the end of the season.

The Belgium international has not played enough matches to trigger an extension to his contract and has been heavily linked with a move to AC Milan.

"He is, and will be for me, forever a Liverpool legend (and) one of the most important players I ever had," said Klopp.

https://www.news24.com/sport/soccer...-play-in-premier-league-title-climax-20220520
 
Jurgen Klopp: Liverpool boss says there is no pressure despite quadruple on the line

Jurgen Klopp says there is no pressure on Liverpool as they put their historic quadruple pursuit on the line on the final day of the Premier League season.

The Reds, who have won both domestic cups and are in the Champions League final, have cut a 14-point deficit to leaders Manchester City to one point before Sunday's finale.

While City host an Aston Villa side managed by former Reds captain Steven Gerrard, Klopp's team face Wolves. "For us, it is pretty positive, it is so special," said Reds boss Klopp.

Liverpool beat Chelsea to win the FA Cup last Saturday three months after overcoming the same opponents to secure the Carabao Cup.

After the Wolves game at Anfield, the Reds will prepare to face Real Madrid in the Champions League final in Paris on 28 May.

But Klopp said there was no pressure on his players this weekend because Pep Guardiola's City side have been frontrunners for so long during 2021-22.

"I cannot talk about pressure for the other team but it's like this for us: there is no pressure," said the German.

"If you have something to lose it feels different - but we don't have that.

"We know that we have to win the football game but we've had that now for a while.

"It's not about 'what if?' - we don't have that. If City have that, I don't know.

"We have been in situations like this before and we know it is not easy but most of the time we have dealt with it OK.

"I have no reason to think why City wouldn't but the situation is different. Ours is full throttle - give it a try and let's see what the outcome is."

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/61531709
 
Jurgen Klopp has confirmed "Liverpool legend" Divock Origi will leave the club this summer, with the forward expected to join AC Milan when his contract expires.

Origi has earned cult-hero status since joining Liverpool in 2015 with a string of iconic goals, most notably his comeback-sealing double against Barcelona in the Champions League semi-finals and his stoppage-time winner against Everton in 2019.

But the arrival of Luis Diaz in January has only heightened the lack of first-team opportunities on offer to Origi and his quest for more regular football is likely to see him trade Merseyside for Milan at the end of the season.

"I expect Div to get a special farewell. For me, he will always be a Liverpool legend and it has been a joy to work with him," Klopp said.

"He's one of the most important players I ever had. Wherever he will go he will be successful, 100 per cent.

"It will be a hard moment when he leaves. He is a Liverpool legend, no doubt."

On other potential outgoings, Klopp added: "I don't want to see anyone leave but that's life. No-one has come to me and said they want to leave. It's not the time for that now.

"What happened this year is possible because of the group; world-class players. Kids played their part which was nice too.

"I have no idea who wants to go at the moment but if someone comes to me and says they have a club they want to join we will speak to the club with an offer."

Earlier on Friday, The Athletic's David Ornstein told Sky Sports News: "Origi has agreed personal terms.

"It's not yet a done deal in terms of a medical and finalising that transfer, but he hasn't made enough appearances at Liverpool to trigger the extension clause that was in his contract.

"It's just a case of putting the finishing touches to what would be a pretty iconic transfer at the age of 27, with Milan pushing to win the Italian title and get back into the Champions League, so I think that's going to happen."

Liverpool's 2-1 win at Southampton on Tuesday closed the gap on Premier League leaders Manchester City to one point and ensured the title race will be decided on the final day.

Klopp's side host Wolves on Sunday while City welcome Aston Villa to the Etihad - both live on Sky Sports - and Klopp has been boosted by the potential return of several key players.

Joe Gomez was forced off at half-time during the win at St Mary's. Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk were injured during last weekend's FA Cup final, while Fabinho hasn't played since May 10.

"Joe Gomez has good news, we want a reassuring second scan. But we thought after the game we were lucky. It's just a knock," Klopp said.

"The rest of the boys look all good, what we do for the weekend, I don't know yet.

"Mo doesn't want to take any risks, no doubt about that but it looks good.

"My solution is they can play at the weekend or at least be on the bench. If not, we take it from there."

Liverpool's slim chances of completing an unprecedented Quadruple remain intact, but they will need a helping hand from former captain and current Villa boss Steven Gerrard.

However, Klopp is not expecting any special favours and is focused on making sure his side takes care of business first.

"Steven will take it seriously for sure," he said. "Aston Villa plays to win but it's a difficult place to go.

"But this is the game I am not thinking about at all. It's disrespectful to Wolves who don't want to come and be part of our celebrations. They come here and want to win."

SKY
 
Jurgen Klopp has confirmed "Liverpool legend" Divock Origi will leave the club this summer, with the forward expected to join AC Milan when his contract expires.

Origi has earned cult-hero status since joining Liverpool in 2015 with a string of iconic goals, most notably his comeback-sealing double against Barcelona in the Champions League semi-finals and his stoppage-time winner against Everton in 2019.

But the arrival of Luis Diaz in January has only heightened the lack of first-team opportunities on offer to Origi and his quest for more regular football is likely to see him trade Merseyside for Milan at the end of the season.

"I expect Div to get a special farewell. For me, he will always be a Liverpool legend and it has been a joy to work with him," Klopp said.

"He's one of the most important players I ever had. Wherever he will go he will be successful, 100 per cent.

"It will be a hard moment when he leaves. He is a Liverpool legend, no doubt."
Click to expand...

He's been a good servant to LFC and a useful player to bring on when needed.

Not many players around these days who will sit on the bench for years waiting for their chance.
 
Their performance in this season is worthy of champions so close hopefully they will win the UCL to lessen the pain
 
Superb season and for a while today it looked like they could have become Premier League champions.

To push City so close was a fantastic effort.

2 cups in the bag and maybe the Champions League too.
 
It's the manner of defeat that has to hurt.

Man City scored 3 goals in 5 minutes to clinch the title.

Ouch.
 
Tough one for Liverpool that.

Had/having a great season.

Just fell 1 point short of the league title in the end.

Great team.
 
James said:
Tough one for Liverpool that.

Had/having a great season.

Just fell 1 point short of the league title in the end.

Great team.
Click to expand...

It was funny how the fans in the stadium all thought they won at one point due to some false messages :))) :)))
 
Fabio Carvalho: Liverpool sign Fulham forward and deal set for 1 July

Liverpool have signed Fabio Carvalho from Fulham with the forward set to officially join on 1 July.

The 19-year-old played a key role in the Cottagers' promotion to the Premier League, scoring 10 goals and providing eight assists.

The clubs agreed a fee for a move in January but the deal collapsed on deadline day.

Carvalho signs a five-year deal for a fee of £5m, with a further £2.7m in add-ons.

Fulham also have a 20% sell-on clause.

Carvalho played for England at youth level but made his Portugal Under-21 debut in March.

He came through the Fulham academy and was nominated for EFL Young Player of the Season, which was won by Nottingham Forest's Brennan Johnson

"Fabio is a great talent and we did everything we could trying to secure him here on a longer deal so he could play in the Premier League with Fulham," said club owner Tony Khan.

"That didn't prove possible, but we were able to keep him for the remainder of the Championship-winning campaign and for that I know he will always be very fondly remembered by our fans."

https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/61548369
 
City deserved to win the league. It would have been extremely lucky for Liverpool to win the league on the last day & for about 75 mins it looked like it was going to happen but in the end the better team in the league won the league.

Don't think Liverpool will win the CL now as well especially when Thiago is almost certain to miss the final & Fabinho is also a doubt.
 
ChTab said:
City deserved to win the league. It would have been extremely lucky for Liverpool to win the league on the last day & for about 75 mins it looked like it was going to happen but in the end the better team in the league won the league.

Don't think Liverpool will win the CL now as well especially when Thiago is almost certain to miss the final & Fabinho is also a doubt.
Click to expand...

Thiago is 50/50 not almost certain to miss it.

90 points and losing by 1 point means neither team fully deserved the league, it came down to the odd instance in a match.

A great season by LFC, with a chance to win the treble. Liverpool are favourites for the Champions League against Madrid, we are the better team. But we need to ensure we play at our high energy and pressing game. If so an easy win for us but Madrid have Bemzema so could take it close. Im confident we will win this title.
 
KingKhanWC said:
Thiago is 50/50 not almost certain to miss it.

90 points and losing by 1 point means neither team fully deserved the league, it came down to the odd instance in a match.

A great season by LFC, with a chance to win the treble. Liverpool are favourites for the Champions League against Madrid, we are the better team. But we need to ensure we play at our high energy and pressing game. If so an easy win for us but Madrid have Bemzema so could take it close. Im confident we will win this title.
Click to expand...
Most of Liverpool fans were extremely positive after GW 32 that City would slip & Liverpool will win the title, how that turned out to be?

It's Real Madrid you're up against this time not freaking Spurs where you would be favorite to win the CL final, no one is favorite to win it. Surely Liverpool are better team on paper but football is never played on paper. I hope that Klopp & Liverpool are thinking the same as you that they are favorites to win the Final. Just a reminder for you that Real has 13 UCL titles & you only have 6. You might be Kings of UCL in England but now you will face the Real Kings of Europe.

I'll get back to you after the CL final.
 
<b>Jurgen Klopp rejects Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane Liverpool contract claim</b>

Jurgen Klopp says the result of Saturday's Champions League final will have no impact on the contract situations of Mohamed Salah or Sadio Mane.

Both players will enter the final 12 months of their Anfield deals in June and while Liverpool are hopeful of retaining the pair beyond, there has been little in the way of anything public from either players' camp or the club at this stage.

The Reds are keen to discuss terms later this summer once a 63-game campaign has come to an end and Klopp says the European Cup final in Paris will hold no sway on what happens over Salah, Mane or Naby Keita, who is also entering his final year.

"Will the result impact contract talks? No, not at all," said the Liverpool boss. "If we win it, will they want to go? We are in talks with all the players. It is just not the moment to talk about everything.

"Has reaching the final interrupted talks? No, that would mean we would have to have negative talks, no. There is just not the time, we play every three days. The players have this idea, we have this idea, sometimes they match, sometimes we have to work together, but we have known each other for ages."

Saturday night in Paris will mark a repeat of the 2018 final when Salah was forced off with a shoulder injury early on to end his 44-goal debut season at Anfield in tears.

Liverpool were beaten 3-1 on the night thanks to a stunning Gareth Bale goal either side of two mistakes from goalkeeper Loris Karius.

Klopp rejected the notion that the game is a chance for revenge for events in Kyiv four years ago and believes his side will arrive at their latest European Cup final in better shape than the 2018 edition.

"It is clear it was a harsh night for us and it was tough to take," Klopp said. "The circumstances, the way we conceded the goal, the injury to Mo... we came there a bit on three wheels, the players came back just in time and then we had to change. We couldn’t replace Mo like for like.

"I don’t believe in revenge but I understand it as well. I am not sure it is the right thing to do. I understand what Mo said, he wants to put it right, I want to put it right. In Germany you say you always win twice in life, behave in the first moment and you will win again.

"It is all fine between me and Real Madrid, it's a football game on the highest level. Whoever thinks it is good to give us an opportunity to win it now, I think it will be a great story.

"It is nice I don’t have to talk about the last six finals I lost but it is part of my final, I cannot change that. It was only one Champions League final but a lot of finals [lost]. For me I mean it: the journey is as important.

"Qualifying for a final is in all sports really difficult. Maybe I had to learn longer. You need luck. It is a massive difference. We won it already but we face a team where the majority have won it three times, Toni Kroos, Luka Modric, Casemiro, Benzema, so if we are in a better place, what are they?

"They obviously have the desire, it is at the maximum level on their side and will be on the max level from our side."

https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/news...sedgntp&cvid=629b4192e4ab49d4870577864f0d287e
 
Sadio Mane: Senegal forward hints at Liverpool stay as he promises 'special' answer over his future

Sadio Mane says he will give a "special" answer over his Liverpool future after Saturday's Champions League final against Real Madrid.

Barcelona and Bayern Munich have both been linked with Mane, 30, who enters the final year of his contract in June.

However, Liverpool are hopeful of retaining the Senegal forward who has already won the Africa Cup of Nations, Carabao Cup and FA Cup this term.

"I think the answer I can give you now is I feel very good," said Mane.

"I am fully focused on Saturday's game, that is the answer I must give before the final. But come back to me on Saturday and I will give you the best answer you want to hear, for sure. It's special. I will give you all you want to hear then.

"I love what I am doing and I sacrifice myself all the time. I am working hard every single day on the pitch and in the gym and I get better and better, that's the most important. I am trying my best to help the team."

Alongside fellow forwards Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino, who turn 30 and 31 in June and October respectively, Mane has been integral to Liverpool's success in recent years.

The trio helped the club win the Champions League in 2019 and then end a 30-year wait for a top-flight title in the following season.

However, all three can leave for free next summer, with Mane preferring not be drawn on his future when asked what would happen if Real, who can start negotiating from January 2023 as an overseas club, were to approach him.

"Good question, but what I want to say now is I am fully focused on the Champions League and winning it, which is far more important for me and the Liverpool fans," he said.

"I will do everything absolutely possible to win the game for Liverpool.

"I think we all forgot about what happened in 2018. For sure Real Madrid were the better team then and deserved to win the game, but it is going to be a different game."

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/61600753
 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">&#55357;&#56803;️ "It was an emotional rollercoaster..."<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LFC</a>'s Andy Robertson says he and his teammates have recovered from the 'disappointment' of missing out on the Premier League title &#55357;&#56628; <a href="https://t.co/YBVwInUpb3">pic.twitter.com/YBVwInUpb3</a></p>— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/SkySportsNews/status/1530202232557281280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Sky turns red in Paris....

RxpszS0.png
 
Lots of endeavour from Liverpool but don't look like scoring. RM have the killer instinct and because of that remain favourites and although their team compared to the recent vintage is pretty Average
 
Liverpool v Real Madrid: Champions League final kick off delayed by 'security reasons'

Liverpool have called for an investigation into the "unacceptable issues" faced by fans which led to their Champions League final against Real Madrid being delayed.

Uefa delayed kick-off by more than 30 minutes, citing "security reasons".

The match at the Stade de France in Paris did not do start until 20:36 BST, with Real beating Liverpool 1-0.

Police outside the ground fired tear gas as a small number of supporters tried to climb over security barriers.

Pictures had emerged in the build-up of huge crowds of fans queuing to get in.

Many claimed they had been at the stadium hours before kick-off but were stopped from getting into the ground.

"We are hugely disappointed at the stadium entry issues and breakdown of the security perimeter that Liverpool fans faced this evening at Stade de France," the Anfield club said in a statement.

"This is the greatest match in European football and supporters should not have to experience the scenes we have witnessed tonight.

"We have officially requested a formal investigation into the causes of these unacceptable issues."

European football's governing body Uefa said it was "sympathetic to those affected by these events and will further review these matters urgently together with the French police and authorities, and with the French Football Federation".

"In the lead-up to the game, the turnstiles at the Liverpool end became blocked by thousands fans who had purchased fake tickets which did not work in the turnstiles," it explained.

"This created a build-up of fans trying to get in. As a result, the kick-off was delayed by 35 minutes to allow as many fans as possible with genuine tickets to gain access.

"As numbers outside the stadium continued to build up after kick off, the police dispersed them with tear gas and forced them away from the stadium."

French police had urged fans not to force entry with tweets 20 minutes before the game was scheduled to begin.

As kick-off approached, large areas of empty seats could still be seen inside the ground.

Outside, some fans were seen climbing perimeter fences or attempting to run past security. Riot police were also in attendance.

Liverpool players emerged to warm up again at 20:06, with messages on the big screens inside the stadium stating the delay was because of the late arrival of fans.

French police said fans with fake tickets had tried to force access to the stadium but "the rapid intervention of the police allowed the return to calm".

They added they were able to disperse fans "without difficulty".

They also said there were no major incidents at fan zones in the city, although 500 people were moved on from a bar near the Liverpool fanzone at Cours de Vincennes.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/61619831
 
Liverpool 0-1 Real Madrid: Jurgen Klopp vows Reds will come again after Champions League final loss

Liverpool fans have been told to "book the hotel" for next year's Champions League final in Istanbul by Reds manager Jurgen Klopp.

Real Madrid beat Liverpool 1-0 in the final in Paris to deny the English side a second title in three years.

It means they finish the season having won the FA Cup and League Cup.

"I have a strong feeling we will come again. The boys are competitive. We will have an outstanding group next season," said Klopp.

"Where's it [the final] next season? Istanbul? Book the hotel."

A week before Saturday's loss, there was still talk of Liverpool being able to win the quadruple as they were also in the running for the Premier League title.

That was reduced to a potential treble last Sunday when Manchester City clinched top spot on the final day of the league season.

Liverpool had plenty of chances in the first half against Real at the Stade de France, but found goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois in outstanding form as the former Chelsea player made several superb saves.

While the Reds complete the campaign with two trophies, Klopp admitted it was too soon for his players to be able appreciate what they have achieved.

"In the dressing room nobody feels it was a great season at the moment," Klopp added on BT Sport. "We maybe need a few hours for that.

"We played a good game, not a perfect game. The boys tried everything, especially at 1-0 down then we played like we wanted to play before."

Liverpool defender Andy Robertson admitted the defeat was a difficult one to take.

"The dressing room is quiet, devastated," the Scotland left-back said. "That is what happens when you don't win finals.

"We had chances, came up against an unbelievable keeper. Being honest though, we could have played better.

"We are a pressing team, it has worked so much for us but we have been caught [at the] back post and that's football.

"It is hard to get back in the game playing against against a very experienced team, they know how to see out a game."

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/61621178
 
Fun Fact for Liverpool Fans.

In last 38 years since Liverpool won thier 4th CL title they have only won the competition twice one time a fluke win vs AC Milan & the 2nd time a win vs Spurs.

Let that sink in for a while.

Most Liverpool fans & all the pundits were saying that Liverpool will win 3-1🤣🤣🤣🤣.

In your face Mo Salah revenge 🤣🤣🤣
 
KingKhanWC said:
Thiago is 50/50 not almost certain to miss it.

90 points and losing by 1 point means neither team fully deserved the league, it came down to the odd instance in a match.

A great season by LFC, with a chance to win the treble. Liverpool are favourites for the Champions League against Madrid, we are the better team. But we need to ensure we play at our high energy and pressing game. If so an easy win for us but Madrid have Bemzema so could take it close. Im confident we will win this title.
Click to expand...

Oh this victory is so sweet because it has humiliated all the arrogant fans & players of Liverpool team. I told you on 25th May that I will get back to you after the Finals. This is CHAMPIONS LEAGUE, this is REAL MADRID's trophy, they're the true KINGS OF EUROPE. Maybe next time you're up against the Mighty REAL you would show some respect. HALA MADRID
 
1 League and 1 Champions League title is a pretty meagre return at the end of the day given that Klopp has had ~7 seasons at the helm.
 
Sadio Mane has not told Liverpool he wants to leave this summer amid Bayern Munich interest

Sadio Mane has not told Liverpool he wants to leave amid links with a move to Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich.

Liverpool are expecting contact from the German club but would want more than the €30million (£35m) being quoted to contemplate doing a deal for the Senegal international, who has 12 months left on his current deal.

Bayern are expected to offer Mane a contract until the summer of 2025, Sky Germany is reporting. They anticipate an initial offer of €30m plus between €5m and €10m in bonus payments.

The club's sporting director Hasan Salihamdzic will lead negotiations, while CEO Oliver Kahn and his predecessor Karl-Heinz Rumenigge watched Mane at Saturday night's Champions League final.

Mane hinted on Wednesday he would announce a "special" decision on his long-term plans after the Paris showpiece but following the 1-0 defeat at the Stade de France, the forward did not make an appearance in front of the media.

Manager Jurgen Klopp was asked about the Bayern rumours at his pre-match press conference in Paris and his answer was non-committal.

"Wherever Sadio will play next year, he will be a big player," said the Reds boss.

On Friday, Sky Germany also reported that Bayern Munich are confident they can sign Mane for less than €50m (£42.5m) this summer.

Salihamidzic has made Mane the top priority on his transfer list and met his representatives this month to formalise the interest.

Paris Saint-Germain were also linked with Mane, but Kylian Mbappe's contract extension and Leonardo's possible exit as sporting director means the club are unlikely to have the financial leeway to strike a deal.

Mane is not the only contract issue Liverpool have to resolve this summer as fellow forwards Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino - who make up the rest of his famed front three - are also entering their final 12 months.

However, ahead of the Champions League final, Salah confirmed that he will be at Liverpool next season.

https://www.skysports.com/football/...leave-this-summer-amid-bayern-munich-interest
 
Liverpool have made contact with the representatives of Barcelona's French winger Ousmane Dembele, 25. (Sport)
 
Such a small margin between an awesome season and a good one. Had we defeated Spurs at home would have won the title. In the ECL final not taking the chances early on was why we lost the match. Can't do much when their keeper had a great game. There will be changes at every club although Mane has not said anything officially about wanting to leave, just rumours. Ox, Milner, Origi and Minamino are or likely to move on or have left so we will need reinforcements for sure.
 
Liverpool are tracking Rennes' French forward Martin Terrier, 25, as a replacement for Sadio Mane, should the Senegal international, 30, depart Anfield. (Mirror)
 
Liverpool's Egypt forward Mohamed Salah, 29, would prefer to join a Premier League rival next summer if no new deal to stay at the Reds is agreed. (The Athletic)

Senegal forward Sadio Mane, 30, wants to leave Liverpool this summer, with Bayern Munich serious contenders for his signature. (Fabrizio Romano, Twitter)
 
Firebat said:
Liverpool are tracking Rennes' French forward Martin Terrier, 25, as a replacement for Sadio Mane, should the Senegal international, 30, depart Anfield. (Mirror)
Click to expand...

Mirror is only good for wrapping food. There Football stories are always wrong.
 
Firebat said:
Liverpool's Egypt forward Mohamed Salah, 29, would prefer to join a Premier League rival next summer if no new deal to stay at the Reds is agreed. (The Athletic)

Senegal forward Sadio Mane, 30, wants to leave Liverpool this summer, with Bayern Munich serious contenders for his signature. (Fabrizio Romano, Twitter)
Click to expand...

Greedy Salah and Mane should both be sold. The club will not be blackmailed by anyone I am certain about that. We have prospered by selling many forwards in the past who left for other clubs only to regret it. If the likes of Nunez are available then tell them both to get lost. I am sick of Salah in particular who it seems will never be happy no matter what we offer him. Yeah he had a great season but didn't win us the EPL title or the ECL and that is a fact. I trust in Jurgen much more then these two.
 
Sadio Mane - "Like everyone else, I'm on social media and I see the comments," he said.

"Isn't it between 60 to 70% of Senegalese want me to leave Liverpool? I will do what they want. We will see soon! Don't be in a hurry because we will see this together. The future will tell us."
 
Hey Mane don't hit the door on the way out. Go to Bayern for more money only to regret your decision after a few years. Remember Torres, Can, Wijnaldum and Coutinho. It is all about money that's all.
 
Saj said:
Sadio Mane - "Like everyone else, I'm on social media and I see the comments," he said.

"Isn't it between 60 to 70% of Senegalese want me to leave Liverpool? I will do what they want. We will see soon! Don't be in a hurry because we will see this together. The future will tell us."
Click to expand...

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">"I will do what they want" <br><br>Sadio Mane says he will do what the people want when responding to an online poll in Senegal which said 60-70% of people want him to leave Liverpool. <a href="https://t.co/jKoU9fMQgQ">pic.twitter.com/jKoU9fMQgQ</a></p>— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/SkySportsNews/status/1532826567843487744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
 
The Germany international has one year left on his contract with no sign of fresh talks after Gnabry rebuffed all of Bayern’s previous attempts at renewing his deal.

Gnabry, who has scored 20 goals in 31 caps for Germany, swapped Arsenal for Werder Bremen in 2016 before moving on to Bayern just one season later in 2017.

Milner humbled Messi, has played in almost every position and doesn’t take himself too seriously

He spent a season on loan at Hoffenheim before being integrated into the first-team at Bayern, where he has scored 63 goals in 171 appearances.

And with Sadio Mane looking set to leave Liverpool this summer, Anfield Central claim that the Reds ‘have held talks’ with Gnabry’s agent ‘over personal demands’.

Reports have claimed that Mane has told the Liverpool hierarchy that he is ready to move on for a new challenge this summer and they are ‘sounding out their options’.

Bayern value Gnabry at €80m but because of the time left on his contract they ‘understand they will have to accept as little as €35-€40m (£30m-£34m)’.

Anfield Central add that Gnabry and his representatives ‘are aware they are in a great position of power’ and will make sure they get what their client deserves.

On Gnabry’s demands, the report adds:

‘The German forward wants £13million (roughly €15m) per year or £250,000 per week.

‘We’re told that the offer Liverpool were open to making was closer to the equivalent of £200,000 per week (roughly £10m).’

As proven in their negotiations with Mo Salah, the Merseysiders are ‘willing to stand their ground’ and the Premier League side have ‘reached an impasse fairly early in negotiations’ with Gnabry.

Arsenal and Tottenham have both been linked with Gnabry too in recent months with the north London clubs looking to close the gap on Manchester City and Liverpool.

The Gunners are said to be ‘interested’ but they will have to wait until the end of his contract if they want a realistic chance of landing him after missing out on Champions League football.

https://www.msn.com/en-gb/sport/foo...sedgntp&cvid=5b9e91bd45ec4fd380c83c73fbed141c
 
Sadio Mane insists Liverpool is a club he 'respects a lot' after he 'jokingly' made comments about what the people of Senegal want him to do about his future on Merseyside. Mane scored a hat-trick in Senegal's 3-1 win over Benin yesterday to become his country's all-time leading scorer.

The Liverpool number 10's future was in doubt before the Champions League final loss to Real Madrid, as he said all would be revealed after the match. Although he is yet to directly tell the club of his wish, it is believed Mane wants to embark on a new challenge elsewhere.

Unsurprisingly, rumours suggest clubs all over Europe are circling, but Bayern Munich are said to be of interest to Mane if he was to leave Anfield in the summer transfer window.

Mane caused a stir on social media with his pre-match comments in the press conference for the Senegal game as he hinted he would leave Liverpool. He said: "Isn't it between 60 to 70% of Senegalese want me to leave Liverpool? I will do what they want. We will see soon! The future will tell us."

But speaking to Canal+ last night after Senegal's 3-1 win, Mane clarified those comments, as he said: "I spoke yesterday while joking with a bit of humour and it was everywhere. I think we'll stop there.

"Liverpool is a club I respect a lot. The fans adopted me since day one. Regarding the future, we'll see."

As previously reported by the ECHO, Liverpool will not accept a fee below £40 million for Mane - who is out of contract in a year and Jurgen Klopp would like a replacement lined up before any move is sanctioned.

https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/spo...sadio-mane-liverpool-future-breaking-24147338
 
Joking my foot! He most likely wanted Klopp and the club to panic with his silly threats begging him to stay the next day. Like every player he will be replaced if and when he leaves. If we pay him and Salah £500,000 a week then VVD and the rest will demand the same. Get in a Nunez if a Salah and Mane keep playing silly games.
 
Really poor conduct and consistently bizarre comments from Mane.

Liverpool should sell him.
 
Liverpool have rejected an opening £25m bid from Bayern Munich for 30-year-old Senegal forward Sadio Mane. (Times)

Liverpool have ended their interest in Barcelona's 17-year-old Spanish midfielder Gavi. (Sport)

Midfielder James Milner, 36, has agreed a new one-year contract with Liverpool. (Athletic)
 
Liverpool have been told by a former player to do all they can to keep Sadio Mane at the club.

Mane’s future has been the subject of intense speculation in recent weeks, with a move away potentially on the cards. The 30-year-old is currently attracting interest from Bayern Munich, while Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain have also been linked.

Reports over the past 24 hours have said that Bayern have made an offer worth £21million plus £4m in add-ons for Mane, with Liverpool swiftly rejecting the bid. Mane’s current deal is set to expire in 2023, and the Reds would look to command a significantly higher fee in order to consider business for the Senegalese international.

Former Liverpool star Dean Saunders thinks that Mane does not wish to move away from Anfield. Saunders also believes that Liverpool should do what they can to get Mane to sign a contract extension.

“I don’t think he wants to leave, (he’s) just trying to get the best contract he can possibly get and threatening Liverpool,” Saunders told talkSPORT.

“I mean, £25m? Where’s that going to get you? Christmas party?

“I think you’ve got to give him the money, he’s too vital to the club, he’s arguably the best player in the world right now, him and Salah.

“If you give Mane £300,000-per-week, £15m a year, three-year contract, it’s £45m in wages you’re going to give him, how much is it going to cost to replace him?

“You’re going to have to pay £100m to get someone who gets 20 goals a season.

https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/news...sedgntp&cvid=55c2cc3f9c044470afbedd11dc8e500a
 
Liverpool have rejected a deal worth £30m for Senegal forward Sadio Mane from Bayern Munich.

The Reds have been left bemused after the German club returned with the offer after an initial bid, reported to be worth up to £25m, was turned down.

Liverpool are understood to want about €50m (£42.8m) for 30-year-old Mane considering Bayern's similar valuation of 33-year-old Robert Lewandowski.

Mane and Lewandowski both have one year remaining on their current deals.

Poland international Lewandowski wants to move to Barcelona this summer after a decade with Bayern.

Mane has been more coy about his future. The forward joked at the weekend that he would be led by public opinion in his homeland, suggesting the majority of Senegalese people would prefer him to leave Anfield.

But the forward has previously hinted that he will stay at Liverpool, promising a "special" answer over his future.

Mane has scored 120 goals for Liverpool since arriving from Southampton for a fee of £36m in June 2016, helping the club to success in the Champions League in 2019 and the Premier League in 2020.

He signed a contract extension with the club in 2018, which expires at the end of next season.

Liverpool also face a conundrum over the future of Egyptian star Mohamed Salah, who will also be a free agent in summer 2023.

Salah has said he intends to remain at Liverpool next season but Barcelona are rumoured to want to sign him as a free agent at the end of the coming campaign.

On Wednesday, Liverpool were linked with a bid for 22-year-old Uruguay and Benfica striker Darwin Nunez.

BBC
 
Official proposal from Liverpool for Darwin Núñez will be €80m plus add ons for €100m package. Benfica will make a decision soon, while Man United are also in contact with his agent. 🔴 #LFC

Liverpool are prepared to offer Núñez a five year deal, waiting for Benfica decision. (Agent Fabrizio Romano)

This is how good clubs look to do transfers quickly.
 
<b>Takumi Minamino: Liverpool set £17m fee as Japan forward attracts interest</b>

Liverpool forward Takumi Minamino is attracting interest from a number of clubs, with the Reds prepared to sell the Japan international for a fee in the region of £17m.

Leeds, Wolves, Fulham, Southampton and Monaco are understood to be admirers.

Minamino made the move to Liverpool from Red Bull Salzburg in 2019.

The 27-year-old joined Southampton on loan in February 2021 and made 10 appearances before returning to Anfield for the 2021-22 campaign.

As Liverpool's top scorer in domestic cup competitions last season, Minamino played a crucial part in helping Jurgen Klopp's side win the FA Cup and League Cup.

However, he made just 11 appearances in the Premier League as Liverpool finished one point behind Manchester City.

Since joining the club, he has scored 14 times in 55 appearances.

BBC
 
Darwin Nunez: Benfica forward wants Liverpool move with Man Utd also interested

Benfica forward Darwin Nunez wants to move to Liverpool and the striker is the Reds' number one target this summer.

The Uruguay international scored 34 times for Benfica last season in all competitions, including goals in both legs of the club's Champions League quarter-final defeat to Liverpool in April.

No offer has been made by Jurgen Klopp's side for Nunez, who is valued by the Portuguese club at €100m (£85.5m).

Manchester United are also admirers of the 22-year-old.

Liverpool, however, are not prepared to enter a bidding war for the striker and will not pay over the odds for the player.

Nunez is also one of a number of forwards Liverpool are looking at this summer, with doubts over the futures of Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah, but the Benfica striker is the Reds' top target in this transfer window.

Mane is wanted by German champions Bayern Munich after the Senegal forward refused to commit to Liverpool beyond next season.

The 30-year-old has one year left on his contract and joked the majority of people in Senegal want him to leave Anfield.

Salah also has one year left on his Liverpool contract but announced before last month's Champions League final defeat to Real Madrid that he will be staying in Merseyside for at least one more season.

https://www.skysports.com/football/...orward-with-manchester-united-also-interested
 
Out- Taki, Mane, Ox and Origi.

In- Nunez, Carvalho and perhaps a creative midfielder. Arsenal's Saka could be a possibility too. Would be awesome if Mane's departure meant Salah signing a new contract.

Man Utd won't sign Nunez unless they pay stupid money like they mostly do. Also, Nunez would want to play in the ECL Next season.
 
Champions League final: Paris police chief sorry for tear gassing Liverpool fans

The man in charge of policing the Champions League final in Paris has apologised for using tear gas against Liverpool fans outside the stadium.

Didier Lallement offered sincere regrets for the trouble and admitted failures in the security operation.

But he also defended his handling of the chaos last month, saying his "red line" was to save lives.

French authorities blamed late arrivals and fake tickets for overcrowding and chaotic scenes before the match.

Liverpool fans - including children - were tear-gassed and pepper-sprayed outside the stadium by police ahead of the final between Liverpool and Real Madrid on 28 May.

Then as they left the area, some fans were were attacked by 300 to 400 local youths, Mr Lallement said.

"It was obviously a failure, because people were pushed around or attacked even though we owed them security," Mr Lallement told the French Senate on Thursday.

"I am fully aware that people of good faith, families, received tear gas. I am very sorry about that."

He said his force was not prepared for the scale of the problem that thousands of fake tickets caused.

He explained that using tear gas outside the Stade de France was the only means they had to get the crowd to move back without charging at them: "I think it would have been a mistake to charge at people." He added that appeals had been made for supporters to move back but they had not worked.

The police chief was aware that families were caught up in the chaos but he insisted it was absolutely necessary for the match to get underway because the stadium was full.

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-61744246
 
Liverpool have confirmed the departures of seven players this summer, including Reds hero Divock Origi and goalkeeper Loris Karius.

Origi, who has etched his name into Anfield history with a series of huge goals for the club, is expected to sign for AC Milan upon the expiry of his contract at the end of June.

The Belgium international scored 41 goals in his 175 appearances for the club, with his brace in the dramatic comeback against Barcelona in the 2019 Champions League semi-finals and goal in that year’s final arguably some of the most memorable.

Karius, meanwhile, will have less fond memories of the Champions League having produced an error-strewn display which contributed to Liverpool’s 2018 final defeat to Real Madrid.

Sheyi Ojo and Ben Woodburn will also leave the Reds in the summer when their contracts expire at the end of the month.

In terms of academy players, the club have confirmed that Elijah Dixon-Bonner, Luis Longstaff and Sean Wilson will depart.

Speaking about Origi in May, Jurgen Klopp branded the striker a Liverpool ‘legend’.

‘Wherever he will go he will be successful, 100 per cent,’ said Klopp.

‘He is, and will be for me, forever a Liverpool legend, one of the most important players I ever had.

‘That might sound strange with the amount of games he had but it was a pure joy to work together.’

METRO
 
Amjid Javed said:
Heard he was offered to leeds plus cash for raphina.
Click to expand...

No thanks!

Would take Minamino as a signing, but don’t want to lose Raphinha in exchange — certainly not to Liverpool of all places.
 
We need to finance the Nunez deal by getting rid of the dead wood. Other then the players mentioned in my post 233 other fringe players have to be moved on. Mane of course will be the major one being sold.
 
Reports that Man Utd are interested in Ox Chamberlian who struggles to make it on our subs bench. This is because they could be short of options struggling to attract any big names. I would LMAO is we sold our reject the Ox to them for around £15 million:inzi2.
 
Liverpool have reached an agreement on personal terms with Benfica's 22-year-old Uruguay striker Darwin Nunez. (The Athletic)

Nunez's agent Jorge Mendes is poised to hold a meeting with Manchester United as the Red Devils look to hijack the forward's club-record £85m move to Anfield. (Express)
 
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