Jurgen Klopp has urged Liverpool supporters to come out in force on Sunday as he explained what he told his squad in the aftermath of their Champions League final heartache.
The Reds’ attempt to win a cup treble and secure a seventh European Cup was thwarted by a 1-0 defeat against Real Madrid on a dismal Saturday evening in Paris marred by organisational chaos that threatened the safety of tens of thousands of Liverpool fans.
Klopp’s side travelled back to Merseyside shortly after the game and will continue with their planned parade on Sunday afternoon to celebrate winning the League Cup and FA Cup.
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But the Reds boss admits such thoughts were far from the minds of his players shortly after the final whistle at the Stade de France.
“I told the boys in the dressing room I feel the pride already, and I saw I was the only one in the dressing room feeling that at that moment,” said Klopp. “The boys need a bit longer.
“These boys played an outstanding season, the two competitions we couldn’t win we didn’t win due to the smallest possible margin, one point and 1-0. City was one point better and Madrid was one goal.
“The difference between 2018 and now is I see us coming again, in 2018 I wished it but didn’t expect it. These boys are really competitive, an incredible attitude, fantastic group and we will go again.”
Klopp added: “And tomorrow we will celebrate the season. It’s good we don’t have to do that immediately and after a night’s sleep and another talk or speech from me, the boys will realise how special it was what they did.
“Even if nobody on this planet would understand we have a parade tomorrow, we still will do it. I really hope everyone has the chance to get to Liverpool and celebrate with us a fantastic season that didn’t end as we wanted. But that’s facts. The club is in a good moment and we will go again.”
