Klopp's new JOB, Thiago CLOSE to move & Reds icon open to RETURN - Liverpool FC news recap

Here is our Liverpool FC news recap for Friday 12 July, with updates on Jurgen Klopp and Thiago Alcantara making headlines. 

JURGEN KLOPP HAS NEW LIVERPOOL ROLE

Liverpool have confirmed that Jurgen Klopp will become the first ever honorary ambassador of the LFC Foundation.

The German left his position as Liverpool boss at the end of the 2023/24 season following almost nine years of service, with the Reds lifting the Premier League, Champions League and an array of other trophies during his tenure.

However, Klopp's special connection with Liverpool will continue after taking his new role on Merseyside, with the 57-year-old always an incredible advocate for the brilliant work conducted by the LFC Foundation during his time in the dugout.

"The LFC Foundation does an incredible job in the community, both in the Liverpool City Region and beyond," said Klopp.

"I am really proud to continue my work with them and be named the first-ever LFC Foundation honorary ambassador. I look forward to seeing what we can do with that now that I have more time on my hands."

➡️ READ MORE

JURGEN KLOPP REJECTS UNITED STATES OFFER

US Soccer made an approach to the former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp in order to ascertain his interest in taking the United States men’s national team coaching role. 

However, the German is understood to have declined the opportunity to discuss the job further after initial contact according to reports in the Telegraph and the Athletic.

Klopp was quickly identified by US Soccer as their No.1 choice to replace Gregg Berhalter after the American’s second spell in charge of the team came to an end after a disastrous Copa America.

With the United States hosting the 2024 edition, the tournament was seen as a test run for the 2026 World Cup, which takes place in the USA, Canada and Mexico.

That led US Soccer to approach Klopp but the organisation has been informed that his plans for a sabbatical have not changed at this juncture.

➡️ READ MORE

THIAGO SET FOR BARCELONA RETURN

Thiago Alcantara is now ‘very close’ to signing with Champions League rivals Barcelona for the upcoming season as a coach. 

Thiago was always leaving Liverpool this summer but few predicted he'd call it a day as a player. The Spaniard retired as a professional following his Anfield exit, bringing an end to a 16-year career.

It was a shock, but also a move that made a lot of sense. Thiago struggled badly with injuries across his final two years, with this previous season having been a disaster for the midfielder.

Thiago is now expected to join up with Barcelona again. Mundo Deportivo reports that he's 'very close' to becoming a coach there, 11 years after leaving for Bayern Munich.

It's a very sensible move, too. Hansi Flick is the new manager there, a coach Thiago thrived under when winning the treble in 2020.

➡️ READ MORE

DIRK KUYT OPEN TO LIVERPOOL COMEBACK

Liverpool cult hero Dirk Kuyt has hinted that he could make his Anfield return to work with new head coach Arne Slot. 

Kuyt was a much-loved figure during his six-year spell on Merseyside, renowned for his relentless energy, tireless work ethic and that hat-trick against Manchester United.

The Dutchman also spent five years over two separate spells at Feyenoord, the former club of new Liverpool boss Slot.

Liverpool's former No. 18 is also now a manager, recently taking second division Belgian side Beerschot to the first tier, and he has suggested that he is open to working with compatriot Slot on Merseyside.

Speaking with Ladbrokes 1-2-Free (via The Mirror), Kuyt once again backed Slot to succeed during his spell at Anfield.

"Arne Slot is a family man, but he's also a guy who is so into football - he's 24/7 football. If you watch his press conferences, you'll see he speaks very well and clearly expresses himself," said Kuyt.

"Of course, if I can help Liverpool in any way, then I will. I've always been in contact with people at the club. I did some work for the foundation of the club, and I've done some commercial work for them, too."

➡️ READ MORE

SON OF FORMER PREMIER LEAGUE DEFENDER LEAVES LIVERPOOL

Liverpool youngster Zac Jagielka has left the club in order to sign for Championship side Hull City. 

The teenager had been with the Reds since under-13 level but it was reported last week that the striker was on trial with the Tigers ahead of a potential summer move.

It has now been confirmed that Hull have clinched the signing of Jagielka, where he is expected to link up with their under-18s.

Jagielka is also a Wales under-17 international and boasts a famous father in the shape of ex-Everton captain Phil Jagielka.

The 40-cap England international played for Liverpool’s Merseyside rivals from 2007 until 2019 and is a former Goodison Park captain.