Liverpool have confirmed that they will play the national anthem ahead of their meeting with Brentford on Saturday to mark the coronation of King Charles III. This decision has been met with some criticism, as many Liverpool supporters hold a strong anti-monarchist and anti-establishment stance. The Premier League had urged all 20 clubs to pay tribute by playing the national anthem before kick-off, and Liverpool’s involvement in the tributes was questioned. In response, Liverpool stated that it is a personal choice how those at Anfield on Saturday mark this occasion and that they know some supporters have strong views on it. The Athletic’s James Pearce reported that the club felt they were placed in an impossible position after being given the choice, with all other clubs taking part.
Prior to the FA Cup final last season, there were choruses of boos for the national anthem, as well as the traditional hymn Abide With Me, which was met with a hysterical reaction from some publications. In response, Jurgen Klopp stated that he knows their people well enough to know that they wouldn’t do it if there was no reason for it. This statement epitomizes why he is the perfect fit for the club, as it acknowledges the reason behind the anti-monarchist stance of many Liverpool supporters. As the chant goes, “There’s only one king in Liverpool, his name is Kenny.”