Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane has provided insight into his reaction to Jurgen Klopp’s memorable, and questionable, celebration during Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with West Bromwich Albion back in 2015.
The iconic moment, where Klopp led his players in jubilant hand-holding at Anfield, left Keane “cringing” at home, he told Sky Sports. He expanded, “[That game against] West Brom, they drew and he’s got them all cheering and holding hands at the end. I was at home cringing going what’s this guy up to?”
Despite his initial skepticism, Keane acknowledged Klopp’s astuteness, admitting, “He knew what he was doing. He’s a smart cookie.” The draw against West Brom marked a pivotal moment in Klopp’s early tenure at Liverpool, showcasing his ability to foster camaraderie and belief within the squad.
Keane continued to compare Jurgen Klopp’s management style to that of Sir Alex Ferguson, revealing that the Man Utd legend would never hug his players. “Maybe not too many [hugs] but I didn’t want any,” he continued. “We were there to do a job and win trophies and that’s the style of that manager.”
“Things have changed. We see most managers now on the pitch every week. Times are changing,” he added.
Manchester United legend Roy Keane admits the Premier League will miss Jurgen Klopp when he leaves Liverpool
The former Red Devil finalised by highlighting what Klopp brought to his side, and admitted that the Premier League are going to miss having him around.
“When you’re a big club it’s about winning but also belief,” Keane said. “Liverpool fans and players travelled home and away, when they were at games you must look at the manager and say you’re glad he’s in charge.”
Throughout his incredible tenure at Liverpool, Klopp has tallied over 300 wins in over 480 games managed, averaging a little over two points per game. And if it wasn’t for the outrageous tenure of Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, Klopp would have had more than a single Premier League title to his name. The German coach also lifted the club’s first European trophy for the first time since 2005.
