Klopp reveals what referee said in confrontation

In a recent interview, Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp has revealed the conversation he had with the referee during a heated match against Chelsea at the beginning of the season. During the match, Klopp was shown a rejection after he stepped onto the pitch to confront the referee following a controversial decision. In the aftermath of the incident, many had speculated what Klopp and the referee had said during their conversation.

However, speaking to ESPN, Klopp decided to put all speculation to rest by sharing exactly what was said during the confrontation. He revealed that the referee had said, “Jurgen, I understand your frustration, but please don’t step on the pitch”. To which Klopp replied, “You have to understand my emotions”. By his own admission, Klopp said that the situation was difficult to act calmly in.

The German coach also declared that although there were a few disagreements during the game, he gave utmost respect to the match officials. He said, “I’m never disrespectful. I am very critical, so I always try to express my opinion when I feel it is necessary. But I do that in a respectful manner and I always respect the decisions of the match officials. I respect the rules and I respect the referees.”

Klopp’s comments are an indication that while he may feel passionately about a certain decision during a game, he carries enough respect for referee’s authority to not step over the line surrounded in heated moments. This respect was further corroborated by the punishment he received from the FA, which was only a one-game touchline ban.