Klopp quits Dortmund; immediately becomes #1 target for Premier League clubs
Borussia Dortmund has announced Jürgen Klopp will leave the club at the end of the current season. Klopp asked to be released early from his contract, stating he is, “no longer the perfect coach for this extraordinary club.” Klopp’s contract, an extension signed less than two years ago, was due to expire in 2018. Klopp’s managerial star has risen dramatically during his seven years at Dortmund. His name has been linked to almost every prominent managerial position that has become available over the past four years, but he steadfastly stayed loyal to Dortmund, stating: “...my commitment to Borussia Dortmund and the people is not breakable.”
However, a season of Dortmund languishing at the bottom half of the Bundesliga, seemingly devoid of ideas and inspiration, coupled with the departures of key players to bitter rivals Bayern Munich, has broken Klopp’s resolve.
Unsurprisingly, the news has sparked a fireball of speculation about Klopp’s next destination, as he made it clear he has no plans for a sabbatical. His success record, coupled with his immediate availability, makes him the number one target for any major European club looking for a new manager.
Top of the Premier League list is Manchester City, strongly rumored to be unhappy with current manager Manuel Pellegrini following their recent poor form that has seen them slip to fourth place in the Premier League.
Arsenal has long been seen as a good fit for Klopp due, in part, to their complementary style of play. However, Arsène Wenger is having his best league season in nearly a decade. With the renewed sense of optimism regarding Arsenal’s domestic and European title chances for next season, it’s difficult to see Wenger resigning or being sacked at this time.
Liverpool are also a possibility: missing out on Champions League qualification might spell the end for manager Brendan Rodgers, and a year to lay foundations without the pressure of European fixtures could be appealing to a new manager.
Image: Reuters
