In a surprising twist, Jurgen Klopp has reacted to growing speculation that he could return to Liverpool in an unexpected role — as an assistant to new manager Arne Slot — following his emotional appearance at Anfield during the club’s Premier League title celebrations.

Klopp, who officially stepped down as Liverpool manager in 2024, was warmly welcomed back to Merseyside this week as he joined the Reds in celebrating their historic 2024/25 Premier League title. The German tactician attended the LFC Foundation charity gala on Friday night and was seen the next day at the AXA Training Centre observing the squad’s final session of the season.

The football world was sent into a frenzy when Klopp was spotted deep in conversation with Arne Slot — his successor — both at the training ground and during Liverpool’s final match of the season, a 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace at Anfield. After the match, Klopp took to Instagram to share his emotions: “Congratulations to the champions! A fantastic team, a fantastic club, a fantastic season! YNWA.”

The sight of Klopp re-engaging with club activities immediately sparked speculation about a potential return — this time in a more advisory or assistant role alongside Slot.

However, according to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, while there was a proposal discussed informally, no formal contract has been signed. Romano reported: “Jurgen Klopp has huge admiration for the club and Arne Slot, but at this stage there’s no plan for him to join the coaching staff. There was a brief conversation about staying connected with Liverpool in some capacity, but not as assistant manager. Klopp wants to enjoy his time away from the daily pressures of coaching.”

During the post-match press conference, Slot also addressed his interactions with Klopp: “It was a fun and very special meeting. It’s the first time we’ve met in person, and although time was limited, we had a good chat. Maybe we’ll talk again in the next few days — I wouldn’t be surprised if I run into him again later today.”

Klopp is expected to remain in Liverpool at least one more day to join the club’s official title parade on Monday, this time as a passionate supporter, not a manager.

While the idea of Klopp taking on a formal role alongside Slot has been dismissed — for now — fans remain hopeful that the iconic manager’s connection to the club may one day bring him back in an official capacity. For now, though, it seems Klopp’s role is exactly where he wants it: cheering from the stands, proudly part of the Liverpool family.