Klopp praises’smart’ Schmadtke as Liverpool deal nears completion
Jurgen Klopp has openly praised Jorg Schmadtke as his confirmation as Liverpool’s next sporting director approaches
According to Football Insider, the former Wolfsburg coach is the clear frontrunner to succeed Julian Ward, who will leave the position this summer after only a year in charge.
Schmadtke comes with a reputation for abrasiveness but no prior experience working for one of Europe’s truly elite clubs, making him something of an out-of-the-box choice.
Klopp, on the other hand, insisted he has no doubts about the 59-year-old’s credentials, even if he stopped short of admitting that a deal for him to join Liverpool is in the works.
The Reds’ manager also denied having a significant influence in the recruitment process.
When asked if Schmadtke would be a good fit, he said, “I cannot speak on that.” However, if it occurs, it will not be a Jurgen Klopp signing because we are both German or know each other. That has nothing to do with it. That is something I can say.
“Jorg Schmadtke” is a German name. I’ve known you for a very long time. He probably hasn’t known me as long as I have, because he was a much better player.
“But we started our second careers at the same time; I became a coach at Mainz, and he became the sporting director at Aachen.” We have two teams with similar status, so we know each other a little bit.
“I know he’s a good and smart guy.” He was very good at what he did in Germany, and he was definitely successful. His character, personality, and sense of humour are all excellent. That I know from a few moments next to the pitch.
“We could discuss (Klopp’s former Borussia Dortmund sporting director) Michael Zorc.” I know him much better because we are in the same age group and have been retired for a similar amount of time. You wouldn’t believe how many good sports directors there are in Germany!”
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