Jurgen Klopp has admitted that it was ‘hard to see’ winger Takumi Minamino leave Liverpool for Monaco.
Minamino completed his move to the Ligue 1 side last week after struggling to secure a consistent run under Klopp during his two-and-a-half year stint at Anfield.
Last season, the Japanese international managed just 11 Premier League appearances despite not suffering from any significant injuries.
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However, the Reds boss is refusing to accept that the 27-year-old failed on Merseyside, as he played an important role as a squad player.
Minamino managed double figures in all competitions in the 2021/22 campaign, including seven in both domestic cup competitions, both of which Liverpool won.
Klopp feels that anyone who claims the former Salzburg man flopped on Merseyside is simply “wrong”.
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Speaking on Liverpool’s official website, he said: “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 are wrong. I don’t accept that.”
While Minamino didn’t quite explode at Anfield, the role he played was certainly valuable to the Reds.
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Like Divock Origi, Minamino was capable of coming in for the likes of Mohamed Salah, Diogo Jota and Sadio Mane and covering for them adequately.
He scored 14 goals across 55 appearances for the North West club and as Klopp has cited, was a positive presence in the dressing room.
The Japanese signed in January 2020 for just £7 million, and Liverpool have made that money back and more in his move to Monaco, with the reported fee said to be around £15 million.
After selling Minamino and bringing in three players this summer, Klopp’s attention may turn to bolstering an ageing midfield.
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The likes of Jude Bellingham, Nicolo Barella and Luka Sucic have been heavily linked with moves to the club.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Liverpool, Liverpool Transfer News & Rumours, Takumi Minamino