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Klopp and Slot Sing all The Right Notes

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Crispin Leyser | Last updated Apr 27, 2025 5:47 PM ET

Most managers leave under a cloud. Secretly they probably hope their successor fails because it will make them look good by comparison. Jürgen Klopp is not most managers.

Klopp left Liverpool a hero, bringing success and memories to last a lifetime. And in his farewell address to supporters, he did something quite extraordinary. He led the fans in a chorus, chanting the name of Arne Slot, his successor. It was a measure of the man - humble, generous, inspirational.

So how joyously symmetrical it was today to see Arne Slot return the favor, in almost the exact same spot on the pitch, on the occasion of Liverpool winning their record-equalling 20th title.

Slot too is humble enough to recognize that the title could only be achieved because of the squad he inherited from Klopp. He bought in just one player, Fredrico Chiesa, who barely played a game.

Has there ever been a more harmonious managerial handover as this? Perhaps not since Liverpool 's legendary manager Bill Shankly was replaced by Bob Paisley. Paisley went on to win the title six times. Watch out League.

Related: How Liverpool Won the League

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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