"It's better he moved on": Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp on Henderson's departure
Sep 15, 2023
Wolverhampton [UK], September 15 : Liverpool head coach Jurgen Klopp disclosed the reason that played a major role in Jordan Henderson's departure to Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Ettifaq.
Earlier this month, Henderson opened up about his move and said that he accepted the offer from Saudi Arabia because he wanted to feel "wanted" and "valued", instead of simply following the money.
While speaking in the pre-match press conference, Klopp was quizzed about Hendorson's transfer and he said as quoted from Goal.com, "Hendo said the truth. That's how it was. We had talks, I told him I wanted him to stay but we talked about maybe not playing regularly."
"I cannot tell a player they can have 50 games because I don't know that. In our relationship, I thought it was important we speak about 'what happens if'. Hendo, I love him but he was not great when they didn't play, [James] Milner and Lucas [Leiva] were the same. So we talk about that now," Klopp added.
The German manager went on to say that he couldn't guarantee regular game time to the Englishman and it was better for him to move on.
"So, in Hendo's ears and mind, he thought I didn't want him there. If I said Hendo would be the main man for me he would stay but I couldn't. That's why it's better he moved on. Not a bit of bad blood. Captain of best Liverpool team in the Premier League era," Klopp added.
Liverpool will be looking to go at the top of the table against Wolves on Saturday.