Liverpool chief executive Billy Hogan has admitted the club believed Jurgen Klopp would leave Anfield in 2024 after being informed by the German he probably wouldn’t sign a new contract.
Klopp’s current deal is set to expire in 2026 after he signed an extension in April. However, his previous contract was due to expire in 2024 and he originally had no intention of staying longer.
In an interview with Bild, Hogan admitted that the renewal came as a surprise to him and his colleagues, as Klopp had previously informed them that he was likely to leave in 2024.
“We couldn’t be happier,” said the American director. “He’s made it clear that he probably won’t renew. But then he and his wife Ulla talked about it and decided to stay for another two years.
“It shows how strong his feelings are for the club – and also how important he is to us… He is already a Liverpool legend – his association with Liverpool will last forever.” It’s like a lifetime contract. He also has such a relationship with Dortmund and Mainz.”
Looking to the future, Hogan believes Klopp will one day make a good chief executive.
“Jurgen would also be a phenomenal CEO,” he added.
“He has this special talent for leading a team and is incredibly successful. When you look at what makes him a great leader, his skills transfer easily to other roles. He can communicate, inspire people and overcome difficult situations. He could fill any leadership position in sports and business.”
