Jamie Carragher, the legendary Liverpool defender, had the opportunity to play under Jurgen Klopp during a friendly match against Sydney FC in 2016. Despite retiring in 2013, Carragher’s skills on the field surprised Klopp, leaving a lasting impression on the manager.
Carragher’s retirement came just before Liverpool’s successful title challenge under Brendan Rodgers in the 2013/14 season. However, it also preceded a decline in form for the club, which eventually led to Klopp’s appointment as manager.
During Klopp’s first full season at Anfield, Liverpool traveled to Australia for a friendly match against Sydney FC. The club struggled to sell tickets for the game, so they invited Carragher, Steven Gerrard, and Steve McManaman to join the squad in an effort to boost ticket sales.
The ANZ Stadium, where the match took place, managed to attract around 72,000 supporters. Carragher and Gerrard both started the game, while McManaman came on as a substitute in the second half. In just 45 minutes of play, Carragher caught Klopp’s eye with his standout performance in defense alongside Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dejan Lovren, and Alberto Moreno.
After the match, Carragher and Klopp had a conversation over drinks. Klopp admitted that Carragher’s passing ability had surprised him. Carragher jokingly responded that his passing often goes unnoticed and doesn’t receive enough credit. This exchange left a positive impression on Klopp, who acknowledged Carragher’s skills.
Liverpool emerged victorious from the friendly with a 3-0 win, thanks to goals from Daniel Sturridge, Moreno, and Roberto Firmino. The experience of playing under Klopp left a lasting impact on Carragher. He recalls a moment during halftime when Klopp passionately argued with the referee over a missed penalty decision, despite Liverpool already leading 2-0. Carragher appreciated Klopp’s competitive spirit and admired his dedication to his players.
This unique encounter between Carragher and Klopp highlights the mutual respect and admiration they have for each other. Despite retiring before Klopp’s arrival, Carragher’s abilities on the field impressed the manager and left a lasting impression. It also showcases Klopp’s passion for the game and his commitment to his players. This anecdote serves as a testament to the strong bond between former players and the club, even after retirement.