Jurgen Klopp has dismissed any speculation of a possible U-turn regarding his decision to leave Liverpool but acknowledged having a discussion with incoming CEO Michael Edwards.

Edwards, returning to Liverpool as Fenway Sports Group’s chief executive of football after an 11-year stint at the club, reunites with Klopp following a period of significant success. During their time together, Liverpool achieved remarkable milestones, including Champions League, Club World Cup, and Premier League title triumphs in 2019–20—the club’s first league win in 30 years.

However, Klopp emphasized that his decision to depart Anfield in the summer remains unwavering despite the successful partnership with Edwards.

“We had a conversation,” said the Liverpool boss. “Michael and I have a really good relationship. We had that conversation, [but] that is not a subject to talk about. Can you imagine I changed my mind? Of course not. It would be like what I said about never ever having another club in England then next year I signed for our neighbours or whatever. It’s crazy.

“I don’t say these things without thinking before. I just want the club to do as well as somehow possible. I am really sure there is a good basis with the right people in charge. Michael is a top choice.”

Klopp emphasized the need to concentrate on the club’s long-term growth and voiced his excitement over Liverpool’s direction under Edwards’ direction.

“The club is in a really good place,” he said. “Of course, people will only measure that at the end of the season when they have a look at what we really achieved, but that’s not that important for the future, what we achieved this season is for now.

“What’s important for the future is how good is the team, how good are the players, how good is the structure, how good is the organisation. That’s where my optimism comes from. That’s why I think it’s a rather good moment to be with Liverpool Football Club. That’s how it is and I’m really happy about that.”

Liverpool still has hope for its quadruple dreams. They defeated Chelsea in the title game to win the Carabao Cup in February, and after defeating Slavia Praha 5-1 in the first leg of the round of 16, they appear to be well-positioned to advance to the Europa League’s round of eight.

Along with Manchester City and Arsenal, they are among the favorites to win the Premier League. They will aim to defeat Manchester United in the FA Cup quarterfinals on Sunday in order to guarantee a spot in the last four of the domestic competition.

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Liverpool have announced the appointment of Jorg Schmadtke as the club’s new sporting director succeeding Julian Ward, who now leaves Anfield after 11 years in various roles.

Schmadtke was formerly the sporting director at Wolfsburg for four years and will begin work at Liverpool on June 1st, subject to work permit processes.

The 59-year-old was a former professional footballer, having played in the Bundesliga as a goalie.

“Firstly, I would like to welcome Jorg to Liverpool Football Club in the knowledge that he will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience into a role in which such qualities can only be beneficial both to him and us,” FSG president Mike Gordon said.

“Jorg will work with our football operations department as it continues to provide support for Jurgen Klopp, in keeping with our ongoing endeavour to keep growing and developing the club in all areas.

“At the same time as we welcome Jorg, we must also bid a fond farewell to Julian Ward, who has served us with unstinting diligence, fortitude and energy in a number of roles, the most recent one being sporting director.

“We wish Julian and his young family the very best for the future and thank him for everything he has done for Liverpool FC during the past 11 years.”

We can confirm Jorg Schmadtke has been appointed as the club's new sporting director.

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) May 30, 2023

Ward joined Liverpool in 2012 as a scout and eventually took on a new job that includes monitoring the development of loan players and football relationships. He was finally elevated to assistant sports director, taking over for the venerable Michael Edwards at the end of the 2021/22 season last summer.

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