Well folks, the 2023/24 Premier League season has been a hell of a ride, and here we are, reaching our destination, which is a day that I hoped would never come. Jurgen Klopp's final game as Liverpool boss, against Wolves, at a packed Anfield.
The occasion presents itself as the culmination of one of the club's most successful periods in recent memory, and there will definitely be some tears shed, including from yours truly.
Despite the finality of Sunday's matchup, in football, the show goes on. While there is a game to play and win, there are also many headlines that can prove significant for Liverpool post Jurgen Klopp.
Here are some of the headlines leading up to Jurgen's final match as manager of Liverpool FC.
Lijnders' Next Destination
It's no secret that Klopp's right-hand-man, Pep Lijnders, has been instrumental to Liverpool's success over the years. His combination of tactical know-how, man-management, and respect amongst the biggest names in the locker room have earned him plaudits.
All the praise has now materialized into the Dutchman's biggest career move yet, as it was recently confirmed that Lijnders will be managing Austrian side, RB Salzburg next season.
It's hard not to feel anything but gratitude towards Lijnders, who was probably my pick to succeed Jurgen Klopp if the situation permits, but it would seem the opportunity for the Dutchman to build his coaching resume abroad seemed more appealing, and understandably so.
I think I speak for every Liverpool supporter when saying that we thank Pep for all the years of service for the Reds, and wish him all the best for his next chapter!
Jota, Robertson, and Thiago involved in Latest Training Session
In what is his final set of preparations as Liverpool manager, Jurgen Klopp is welcoming three players who are returning from injury, handing the Reds a major boost as they look to finish the season and see off Klopp on a winning note.
Andy Robertson looks to return from missing the 3-3 draw against Aston Villa. The Scotsman was missed dearly, as Liverpool surrendered a hard earned 3-1 lead to the home side.
Thankfully, Klopp will be given the opportunity to see out his final game with one of his most trusted players during his Liverpool tenure, available for selection.
Diogo Jota, meanwhile, is back after a somewhat lengthy absence following Liverpool's 3-1 win against Fulham a month ago.
It's been an injury-riddled season for the Portuguese International, who, despite missing a chunk of the campaign, still managed 15 goals and 9 assists in all competitions this year. What could have been if he stayed healthy...
Finally, an unlikely name joins the Liverpool preparations for the final time in his career, as Thiago was involved, much to everyone's surprise.
Despite his Liverpool career being heavily plagued with injuries, the Spaniard's quality on the pitch is unquestioned. But the Reds seemed to have moved on from him with the signings of Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Ryan Gravenberch.
Maybe we'll see him put on the famous red shirt one last time?
Klopp "At Peace" With Liverpool Career
Speaking at his final press conference as Liverpool gaffer, there are quite a few soundbites to choose from our perspective. One in particular stands out though, as when asked to reflect on his career as Reds boss, Jurgen Klopp responded with his typical eloquence "We could have won more” – but ‘I couldn’t have done more.'
As someone who didn't have the pleasure of experiencing Liverpool's most successful period in the 1970s through the 1980s, it's safe to say that the Klopp era represents the best stretch I've witnessed as a Liverpool fan.
It comes down to a lot of things, of course, the quality of the players we have being a massive part. However, all of this wouldn't be possible without the genius of Jurgen Klopp, as he was simply the right man who came at the right time for the club.
Looking ahead to Sunday, in what will definitely be a farewell with quite a few tears shed. I count myself fortunate to have experienced the highs and even the lows of the Klopp era.
He deserves the best, and fortunately for us, he gave us his absolute best. Regardless of our missed opportunities this season, or in past seasons, sometimes what matters at the end is the journey, not the destination, and to be fair to Jurgen, the destination was pretty darn good as well. What a ride this was.
Danke Jurgen, You'll Never Walk Alone.