by Eugen Klopp has expressed his surprise at Roberto Firmino’s intention to leave Liverpool at the end of the current season, but, on the other hand, also says it is normal. The German coach emphasized the relationship the Brazilian has with the players and especially the relationship he has built with the fans over eight years and is convinced that this will last.
“Yes, he told me. I was a bit surprised. But respect. It’s perfectly normal to happen in a long term relationship that we already have this Bobby too [Firmino] it has with the club, with most of the players and with the fans, of course. It’s very special,” he began referring.
The Brazilian forward has lost his place in the team but remains a fan favourite, as shown when he came on in the defeat to Manchester United. “I liked the way he was applauded when he came on against United. He told me about his intentions and something else he told me was “Now I want to bring this wonderful story to a positive end”. That too. He is fully engaged. That’s all we need to know,” he added.
Despite everything, Klopp says it’s not time to say goodbye and he still has Firmino’s help until the end of the season. “There are no good times to say goodbye or anything like that at the moment, there will be plenty of time for that towards the end of the season. Whenever he comes back here, everyone knows it, his music will be around for a long time, you’re in everyone’s ears, I’m sure of it. I think he is one of those players who, even if he comes here to play in an opposing team, he will always be well received by everyone,” he further commented.
The German coach addressed the issue in the preview of Saturday’s “difficult” match against Bournemouth. “The most important thing is to go there with the idea that we are not guaranteed the three points. The way they play can make any team uncomfortable. Everyone saw their last game against Arsenal (2-3), everyone saw what they had to give to win this game,” he warned.
Klopp also gave an update on the players unavailable for physical reasons, Luis Diaz, Thiago Alcantara and Joe Gomez. “All three are unavailable, all at different stages. Joe can start training early in the week. Luis will hopefully be back next week after the international break. We haven’t seen Thiago yet, none of them have trained with the team yet, but in the coming weeks we will know more,” he also emphasized.
