Outgoing Liverpool star confirms Klopp wanted him to stay but club chose otherwise.
James Milner confirms Jurgen Klopp wanted him to stay but ‘content’ with Liverpool exit.
James Milner will make his last Liverpool appearance when the Reds take on Southampton on Sunday, despite Jurgen Klopp wanting to keep the veteran at Anfield.
James Milner has confirmed that Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp wanted him to stay at the club, but the decision was made for him to depart. The 37-year-old midfielder, who has been with Liverpool since 2015 and achieved significant success during his tenure, will make his final appearance for the club in the upcoming match against Southampton.
Milner, who has made over 300 appearances for Liverpool and won major trophies including the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, and League Cup, expressed his contentment with the club's decision despite Klopp's desire for him to stay. He acknowledged that while the manager wanted him to continue, the club's hierarchy had a different perspective.
In discussing his departure, Milner stated, "It's all good because the manager wanted to keep me – which as a player is what you want." He further explained that although the club decided on a different path, he felt that it was the right time for him to move on and he is satisfied with how things have unfolded.
The decision regarding Milner's future was communicated to him approximately three weeks ago by the club. Due to the lack of communication prior to that, Milner had already mentally prepared himself for the possibility of leaving Liverpool. However, he remains open to the option of returning to play against Liverpool in the future, potentially as a member of another team such as Brighton.
Looking ahead, Milner intends to continue his playing career beyond his 38th birthday, which falls in January. He is expected to join Brighton and Hove Albion. Additionally, Milner has contemplated the prospect of entering management after retiring as a player, although he admits to having some reservations. He has obtained his coaching badges while still actively playing and believes that his experience playing under various managers, both exceptional and subpar, has contributed to his learning and growth in the sport.
Ultimately, Milner remains open to the possibilities that lie ahead, whether that involves pursuing a career in management or enjoying the leisurely pursuits of the golf course. He recognizes that the managerial path has its uncertainties, but his passion for the game and his wealth of experience will continue to guide him as he embarks on the next chapter of his football journey.
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