Liverpool Football Club’s former training ground, Melwood, held historical significance for the club. It was where Bill Shankly transformed the facility from a “sorry wilderness” into a legendary establishment. However, in 2020, the men’s team moved to the new AXA Training Centre in Kirkby, which integrated the academy with the first team.
Interestingly, the club had sold Melwood to a housing developer for around £10 million. However, they later repurchased the premises for £13 million to provide a home for the women’s team. This decision drew laughter from Jurgen Klopp during a Q&A session with Liverpool fans, as he deemed it the “dumbest idea” to have sold Melwood in the first place.
Fortunately, the acquisition of Melwood proved to be a wise move for the women’s side. Under the guidance of Matt Beard, they achieved an impressive fourth-place finish in the Women’s Super League and nearly doubled their points tally from the previous season.
The decision to sell Melwood in the first place raises questions about its necessity, especially considering that the women’s team lacked a dedicated facility. However, it seems that FSG, Liverpool’s owners, attempted to rectify their mistake by repurchasing the grounds.
With rumors circulating about FSG’s involvement in Klopp’s departure from the club, the German manager spoke highly of the owners and emphasized that everything had been done in the “Liverpool way.” He commended their commitment and described them as good people.
Klopp acknowledged that owners naturally seek to earn money but highlighted that Liverpool’s owners were different from those who merely viewed clubs as financial assets. He expressed gratitude for having owners who cared about the club’s heritage and culture, contrasting them with those who simply invested in London clubs. Klopp jokingly admitted that he wouldn’t have lasted a year at Liverpool if that were the case.
In conclusion, Klopp’s comments shed light on the decision to sell and repurchase Melwood, highlighting the importance of having owners who prioritize the club’s values. Despite the initial blunder, the acquisition of Melwood has proven beneficial for the women’s team. Klopp’s departure and his positive remarks about FSG further underscore the commitment of Liverpool’s owners to the club’s success and legacy.