Slot meets Klopp as Liverpool celebrations mark changing of the guard

Klopp returns to Anfield for champions’ send-off

There are moments in football that feel more poetic than planned. Jurgen Klopp walking back into Anfield, one year on from his emotional farewell, to witness Liverpool crowned champions once more, is one of them. The German, never far from the soul of the club, found himself back among familiar faces — and, crucially, meeting his successor, Arne Slot.

Klopp’s return to Merseyside has not been quiet. From the LFC Foundation gala on Friday night to Liverpool’s final training session of the season at the AXA Training Centre on Saturday, his presence has rippled through the club’s corridors. It was there that Klopp and Slot came face-to-face for the first time, two men connected by one of the most intense jobs in football.

Quiet conversation and mutual respect

Slot, now very much in the thick of it, admitted their conversation was brief. “That went well! I don’t think we’ve met before, but we spoke to each other already a few times,” he said in his post-match press conference. “Yesterday time was limited… but I did have some time for that. We might meet each other in the upcoming days once again.”

The pair later crossed paths again after the 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace, down in Anfield’s inner sanctum as players and staff toasted another title. Klopp, beaming with pride, posted photos with Slot and Virgil van Dijk, captioned: “Congratulations Champions!! What a team, what a club, what a season! YNWA.”

Parade plans underline Klopp’s enduring bond

The celebrations are far from over. Klopp, ever the adopted Scouser, will remain in town to attend Monday’s victory parade as a supporter. This wasn’t just a fleeting visit, it was a return to roots. For Slot, the symbolism won’t be lost. His Liverpool chapter is underway, but Klopp’s shadow looms large — not as a burden, but as a blessing.