Virgil van Dijk couldn’t hide his admiration for Jurgen Klopp after the German’s final match in charge of Liverpool, with the skipper trying to fight the tears.
The Reds beat Wolves 2-0 on Sunday afternoon, as the Klopp era ended positively after a dominant performance.
Those inside Anfield were simply waiting for the post-match scenes, however, as the legendary 56-year-old was honoured.
There were tributes to Thiago, Joel Matip and Klopp’s backroom team, too, before the boss produced a memorable speech in front of the fans.
"I've got no words, it's a very special day"
An emotional Virgil van Dijk says it was a 'tough' final embrace after Jurgen Klopp's last game ? pic.twitter.com/hBm4qLIt2o
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 19, 2024
Van Dijk has been one of the star figures under the Liverpool manager, and he gave a teary interview after the game on Sky Sports.
“I’ve got no words, it’s a very emotional day. Liverpool is Liverpool, it’s special,” he explained.
“It was always going to be a tough afternoon for everyone, we wanted to win the game, that we do our job and now we can be very emotional after the game and we will be.
“It’s been very difficult, but we did it and I’m proud of it.
“You can’t prepare for these kind of situations, moments, but overall it’s been a good day and he deserves every bit of love that he’s getting.”
Asked what his final hug with Klopp on the pitch was like, Van Dijk choked up, replying: “Tough…tough. But life goes on.”
??? Jurgen Klopp and Virgil van Dijk in an emotional embrace after the final whistle.
This is too much to handle ? pic.twitter.com/MZaUT5xRcK
— This Is Anfield (@thisisanfield) May 19, 2024
This Is Anfield also captured touching footage of Van Dijk and Klopp hugging at the end of the game, with the Liverpool captain unable to keep his composure.
It sums up the incredible rapport that the German has built up with his players down the years, and the love they have for one another.
Good luck following this up, Arne Slot!
Klopp’s Anfield farewell
- SPEECH IN FULL: Every word as Klopp spoke to fans at Anfield!
- KLOPP BACKS SLOT: Klopp leads Liverpool fans in song for new manager!
- BEHIND THE SCENES: “I love you” – Klopp’s dressing room speech
- TEARS FROM VIRGIL: Van Dijk fights tears in emotional Klopp tribute
- TRENT’S EMOTIONAL INTERVIEW: “Klopp changed my life”
- KLOPP THE FAN: ‘You are the superpower – and I am one of you now’
- THINGS YOU MISSED: Trent in tears, Pep’s intensity and more!
- THE PARTY: Klopp dances as John Barnes raps! – Inside LFC’s farewell party
- MATCH REPORT: Klopp’s farewell sees stars of the future shine
- PLAYER RATINGS: An obvious choice for Man of the Match?
- TALKING POINTS: Fitting farewell for Klopp, 491 & out
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