Since Jurgen Klopp agreed a three-year deal to become Liverpool manager on October 8th 2015, the Liverpool faithful have enjoyed a resurgence that few could have ever expected. They have reached three Champions league finals, winning one, won both an FA Cup and an EFL Cup, the FIFA World Cup and, of course, won their first ever Premier League title in 2019/20. Now, the word resurgence was used purposefully, Klopp has brought a performance level that better reflects the historical status of the club but one that younger fans may not have been so familiar with actually experiencing. The 2022/23 season has proved to be Klopp’s most difficult spell with the club so far and now that the club has been put up for sale by Fenway Sports Group (FSG) as of November 2022, Liverpool face a modern challenge that could change how their very own fans perceive themselves. Let’s take a look at how.
A Match Made in Heaven
Liverpool as a city is a special place, this magic extends into the stands of Anfield and the spirit of the club. Players from all over Europe sing the praises of the atmosphere within the club whenever they get the opportunity to play against them. Jurgen Klopp was the ideal manager to lead Liverpool back to the top of world football because he understood this. Yes, he is a master tactician, but he is also an individual who truly gets and lives for the emotional benefits of a football club working in unison.
Over Klopp’s reign in charge, there have been multiple moments when the connection between the club, the players, the fans, and the city has been on full show for all to see. It is a sight to be witnessed and to be treasured, and with so many other clubs falling into the category of companies and businesses instead of communities, it is something that Liverpool fans savour with an ever-increasing appreciation. The fanbase is as committed as any other in world football, keeping up to date on the latest soccer news on Sportsbet, following the team on the road, and creating one of the best atmospheres in any ground on earth.
Be Careful What You Wish For
The grass isn’t always greener and Liverpool fans need to be wary of this. The poor start to the 2022/23 Premier League season has seen the club be put up for sale. Perhaps it is because FSG have achieved all they wanted to at the club? More likely is that a poor run in form, and the idea of rebuilding in order to challenge the likes Manchester City and Newcastle United in the transfer market has given them cause for concern.
While some fans may now be dreaming for new owners and unlimited spending, the wrong owners can be catastrophic for a football club regardless of if they bring success. For Liverpool Football Club, the fall from grace could be even more detrimental than for others. This is a club that is intertwined with the values of the city and its people. This is reflected in the stands every weekend in a chorus of ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’.
While the decision is ultimately down to FSG, the failed European Super League (ESL) did demonstrate that fans do have some sway when it comes to influencing their owners decision-making. For Liverpool fans, for now, it is a case of waiting to see how this new era proceeds. However, if the club does fall into the wrong hands, even if they do offer up success, the club is at risk of losing what is actually special about it. Even if it does mean a drop off in quality and in honours for a period of time, Liverpool is at a turning point when it comes to their identity both on and off the pitch. Fans need to consider what is more important and voice their opinion loud and clear for all to hear.
