Liverpool’s net spend under owners FSG has always been a topic of discussion, especially when compared to rival clubs. However, the statistics clearly demonstrate Jurgen Klopp’s remarkable achievements at Anfield.
When Klopp arrived in 2015, he was no stranger to working within a budget. He has consistently acknowledged that Liverpool cannot spend money they don’t have, unlike some of their top-flight competitors. Klopp’s statement in 2021 highlights this disparity between Liverpool and other clubs.
Despite these financial limitations, Liverpool has enjoyed considerable success under Klopp’s leadership. In fact, with just four different results, they could have secured six major trophies instead of two. The margin for silverware has been incredibly narrow, as Sky Sports’ recent graphic comparing net spend and trophies among the ‘big six’ clubs reveals.
Since Klopp’s appointment in October 2015, Liverpool’s net spend stands at £346 million, the lowest among the ‘big six.’ However, they have won the second-most major trophies (seven). This is in stark contrast to Manchester City, who have faced 115 breaches of Premier League financial regulations. Despite their net spend of £630 million, they have won just 15 trophies in the same time period.
Comparatively, Chelsea and Manchester United both belong to the £1 billion club in terms of net spend. However, Chelsea has won six trophies, while Manchester United has won four. Arsenal, with a net spend slightly higher than Liverpool’s (£702 million), has secured two trophies.
These statistics reveal the remarkable job Klopp has done at Liverpool within a self-sustaining structure, despite competing against financially advantaged teams. When Klopp took over, he inherited a squad that needed rebuilding. He did it meticulously and effectively, making the team greater than the sum of its parts. Klopp reinvested funds from player sales into transfers, gradually strengthening the squad.
It is worth noting that with just four different results, Liverpool’s trophy tally could have been significantly different. However, Klopp’s impact on the club cannot be understated. Few other managers could have propelled Liverpool to the heights he has achieved.
In conclusion, Liverpool’s net spend under FSG has been the subject of scrutiny. Despite operating with a limited budget, Klopp has led the club to great success. The statistics clearly demonstrate the incredible job Klopp has done at Liverpool, competing against financially-doped sides. By carefully rebuilding the squad and making the team greater than the sum of its parts, Klopp has solidified his status as one of the top managers in football.