On Brink of History, Jurgen Klopp Well Worth His Price Tag

Jurgen Klopp was already one of the world’s best soccer managers — but his latest tactical masterclass has put Liverpool on the brink of history.

After conceding two first-half goals in Tuesday’s Champions League semifinal second leg with Villarreal, Klopp’s aggressive attacking scheme allowed the Reds to explode for three in the second to advance on aggregate to the UCL Final.

Now, Liverpool have a chance at winning the first English Quadruple — four cups in one campaign — and have now passed the 2006-07 Chelsea side for the longest-lasting bid to hit the milestone.

Initially intending to leave after his contract expired in 2024, Klopp ultimately extended through 2026, a decision that should only heighten his legacy — and his leverage for his next contract.

• Klopp’s $20M annual salary reportedly trails only Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola ($23.7M) in the Premier League.
• Liverpool’s 42 victories across all competitions this season are currently sixth in English top-flight history.
• The club won the 2019-20 Premier League and 2018-19 Champions League under Klopp.

If Klopp’s men are going to pull off the Quadruple, the road could go through Guardiola — twice.

City would punch their ticket to the UCL Final with a win or draw over Real Madrid in Wednesday’s second semifinal leg — and top Liverpool by a single point in the Premier League table.

When the dust settles, Klopp or Guardiola can legitimately lay claim to the title of world’s best manager.