Jurgen Klopp could bring an abrupt end to his managerial career after leaving Liverpool this summer, according to a report in Germany.
Klopp stunned Liverpool fans – as well as staff and players at Anfield – when he announced in January that he would be walking away from the job after nine seasons in charge of the Reds.
The German revealed that, although his health is good, he needs to take time out from management to recharge his batteries after almost a decade in one of the Premier League's biggest and most demanding jobs.
Speaking ahead of Thursday night's Europa League loss at home to Atalanta, Klopp said he was not making any plans for his career after leaving Liverpool. "Ask me again in a year's time," he added.
And according to German newspaper BILD, the former Borussia Dortmund coach could decide to bring an end to his managerial career altogether.
The report says the 56-year-old is currently leaning towards retirement from football after he leaves Liverpool in the summer.
Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso had been the favourite to succeed Klopp this summer, but the former Liverpool midfielder has pledged his short-term future to the Bundesliga leaders.
Sporting CP coach Ruben Amorim is understood to be the favourite for the soon-to-be-vacant role at Anfield, but the Reds are considering a number of options for Klopp's successor.
In FourFourTwo's view, Klopp will be back. While the German clearly needs a break after an intense nine years at Anfield, his passion for the game remains strong and at 56 years old, he still has plenty to give. And once he is ready to return, he will have no shortage of options from top clubs across Europe. The German national team role could also suit him if he is not prepared to return to day-to-day management.
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Ruben Amorim has reportedly been in talks with Liverpool, before giving his prospective new employers a shopping list. Five Sporting players could be targeted by the Reds.
Luis Diaz and Mohamed Salah could leave, with Liverpool shocked at Diaz's requests. Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher says Darwin Nunez will never be clinical and Jurgen Klopp has revealed 'the next Steven Gerrard' that he desperately wanted to sign.
Meanwhile, the rumour mill says Xabi Alonso will take the Real Madrid job in 2025.
