Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool project finally seems to be kicking into gear this campaign, as his gung-ho squad tussle it out with Manchester United for a second place finish.
But according to the enigmatic German, he would have spent this season screaming orders from the Old Trafford dugout if he’d taken up an enticing offer a few years ago.
Klopp explained how Manchester United tried to hire him from Borussia Dortmund in 2015, where he had spent seven successful years in charge.
He ultimately rejected them for Liverpool, and United were forced to keep Louis Van Gaal on for another season.
"Yes there was interest - Manchester United, yes they were interested a year or a year-and-a-half before, but it didn't feel right," Klopp told Sky Sports. "I couldn't say Man United is not my club, it didn't feel right.
"When Liverpool called, I had no chance. It was actually too early for my plans. I said, 'Wow, come on!' But then coming here and feeling the spirit immediately, it was just, for me, a match in heaven."
Klopp signed a three-year contract at Liverpool, and then extended until 2022 a year later.
"I'm a football romantic," Klopp added. "I'm confident but not as confident as other managers, thinking this club will call, that club will call. A lot of clubs called and I said 'No, no chance, I need to make a break now'. Even my wife knew, if Liverpool is calling, I go."
