Jurgen Klopp's imminent departure has cast doubt on the futures of Mohamed Salah, Virgil Van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Klopp announced he would be leaving Liverpool after nine years last Friday, and with the previously mentioned key men all having less than 18 months left on their current contract, the German's decision has cast doubt on their futures.
Despite this uncertainty, Klopp has played down speculation that his departure will act as a catalyst for Liverpool's key men to also leave the club.
Klopp explained the reason behind the player's contract situation, claiming that it would have been wrong to sign players on long-term deals before they knew about the German's future.
"The club knew about my departure for a while. Why tie the players down and then I say I'm not here anymore? You don't do business like that," Klopp told the media.
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"They want to know a little bit more, that is absolutely normal. Things need time. People at home, don't worry. It's fine. The boys love this place. I know that for a fact."
"No, I don't think so. It's completely normal. It's clear the outside world will not give you a second to process. A week ago no one knew about my situation," The 56-year-old explained.
"Still 18 months on their contracts and no one asked. No one has to worry.
"Write what you want, the club is stable. Everything will be fine, I'm 100% sure. I would recommend to stay calm."
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"Very often the fans' concerns are not as big as you might think. You underestimate the intelligence of our supporters," Klopp reiterated.
Despite Klopp's adamance the three players in question are settled, Van Dijk's recent comments do add credibility to the notion a rather large reshuffle could be on the cards at Anfield.
After Sunday’s 5-2 win against Championship side Norwich City in the FA Cup, captain Van Dijk was asked whether he sees himself being involved in Liverpool’s new era, the Dutchman worryingly said, via The Times: “That’s a big question, Well, I don’t know.”
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Despite Van Dijk's worrying response, Klopp also tried to ease fears over the Dutchman's comments in today's press conference: Virgil didn't go out and say it, it's always about the questions. We always need to answer these kind of things. Write what you want, this club is stable, 100%. Everything will be fine, I'm 100% sure."
Topics: Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool, Virgil Van Dijk, Football, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Premier League, Mohamed Salah
Tom Jenkins