Borussia Dortmund forward Marco Reus has explained how Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp had players ‘under his spell’ during his managerial spell with the German giants.
Klopp, who was in charge of Dortmund for seven years and lifted two league titles, is renowned for his enthusiastic and animated nature— and this is something that Reus certainly hasn’t forgotten about.
And although the pair are no longer together, it’s clear to see the lasting impression Klopp has had on Reus - who has regularly been linked with a move to Liverpool.
"Oh my god, Jurgen was such an animal! You only knew somebody like him from TV," Reus told Goal & DAZN.
"He pulls you under his spell and will not let you go. I left the conversation with a fluttering heart.
"He was definitely one of the reasons why I signed for Dortmund."
He continued: "If Jurgen sits in front of you with his aura, with his aggressiveness, which he radiates even when speaking, with his size, then that is quite impressive. Even the way he talks to you - this is rarely the case in professional business.”
Not only was Reus impressed by his former boss’ communication skills, but the 30-year-old Dortmund star also listed Klopp’s ability to improve players and his tactical awareness as major strengths.
He added: "Jurgen can develop players and make them better. That is a very important factor. He has a special way, in training and personal interaction.
"Before a season you can plan a lot. But so many unforeseen things can happen, such as a system change or injuries, so things can happen completely different.
"When a club wants to sign a player, it's important that the coach teaches the player the philosophy and what he's up to. That was not different with me.
"Shinji Kagawa signed for Manchester United that year, I was the substitute. We talked about what position he sees me in and in which areas I can improve myself.”
