Jurgen Klopp has changed Liverpool like Arsene Wenger did at Arsenal claims Martin Keown

Jurgen Klopp's charisma has lighted up Liverpool

JURGEN KLOPP has created an atmosphere of positivity at Liverpool in much the same way that Arsene Wenger did when he first joined Arsenal.

 

Wenger created little fanfare when he arrived at Highbury in 1996.

Klopp meanwhile was the talk of the town after replacing Brendan Rodgers as Reds boss in October.

He has already made an immediate impact on Anfield, and has lost just one of his 11 games in charge.

Keown, who attained legendary status at Arsenal, thinks a parallel can be drawn between Klopp and his former boss Wenger.

 

“Jurgen Klopp is such a charismatic character and we have all been very refreshed by his honesty and insight,” Keown told the Daily Mail.

“I’m sure it’s the same with his players. He’s almost disarming with his smile but he is able to re-energise people and he is really bringing out the best in his squad.

“I saw a similar thing happen at Arsenal when Arsene Wenger arrived. It was quite a stern, tough environment but Wenger brought with him a very positive atmosphere. 

“He encouraged every person to be themselves and he skilfully changed the feeling at the club.

 

“Players can be very perceptive – they can tell as soon as somebody walks into a room whether they appreciate them or not. Whether that be by a look, a manner or an expression. 

“There are no magic wands but with Klopp every player will feel like they have a new opportunity and a new beginning.

“He is an outstanding communicator, both in the press and with his squad. It feels like some of the tension at Anfield has been released by the German.

 



Arsene Wenger has been manager of Arsenal for over 19 years

“Even players like Kolo Toure, who at times looked very nervous recently, is now a completely different animal.

“There is a real positivity about the club but, importantly, there is also a sense of direction. 

“It was the same with Wenger. The atmosphere he created made everybody feel 10 feet tall but then there was always a plan to follow as well.”