‘I don’t accept that’ – Jurgen Klopp makes claim about latest Liverpool transfer

Liverpool boss, Jurgen Klopp has refused to accept Takumi Minamino’s time at the club did not work out.

Minamino left Anfield Sunday night for Monaco for a transfer deal that could top £15.5 million.

The Reds signed the Japan international in January 2020 from Red Bull Salzburg, but he spent much of his time on Merseyside in the shadows.

The attacking pecking order was headed by Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Diogo Jota, Roberto Firmino, and most recently Luis Diaz.

However, Minamino was Liverpool’s leading scorer last season as they advanced to the FA Cup and Carabao Cup finals.

And Klopp thinks that Minamino was a “manager’s dream” to work with because of those contributions and the high levels he demonstrated in training.

Jurgen Klopp has refused to accept Takumi Minamino’s time at Liverpool did not work out.

Takumi Minamino and Jurgen Klopp. (Getty Images)

The Japan international joined the Reds in January 2020 from Red Bull Salzburg – but was a peripheral figure for much of his time on Merseyside.

Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane, Diogo Jota, Roberto Firmino and most recently Luis Diaz were all ahead in the attacking pecking order.

However, Minamino did finish as Liverpool’s top scorer on the road to both FA Cup and Carabao Cup glory last season.

And because of those contributions, coupled with the high levels he displayed in training, Klopp insists Minamino was a ‘manager’s dream’ to work with.

The Liverpool manager told the club website: “It’s hard to see Taki go, but it’s a great move for him and one he thoroughly deserves.

“An amazing professional; super, talented player. As a person, he is full of warmth and makes everyone feel positive. A manager’s dream, to be honest.

“I’m sure there will be those who think it didn’t quite work out. Those who think this are wrong. I don’t accept that.

“His contribution far outweighs the opportunities we were able to give, in terms of starting matches. He made us better each and every day he was with us – not just in the games he played in but every single session in training. Perfect attitude, winner’s mentality.

“His performances and his goals are the reason we have had to redecorate the Champions Wall so often. His achievements here will stand the test of time.”

In other news, Liverpool ready to offer word-class star 3-year deal plus £25m