Jurgen Klopp return verdict as Liverpool and Arne Slot face ‘farcical’ Man Utd problem

OPINION: The spectre of ex-Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is looming large over Anfield again much like Sir Alex Ferguson has for so many years at Old Trafford

Jurgen Klopp returning to Liverpool is a farcical idea that shouldn’t be entertained for a single second.

The spectre of the German managerial great is looming large over Anfield again. Because Liverpool are in a crisis, with their Premier League title defence in tatters after just 12 games.

The reigning champions have lost six of their last seven matches in the competition they won at a canter last season. Something is very wrong for a team which cost a fortune to assemble only to get thrashed 3-0 at home by Nottingham Forest.

And, with the pre-season title favourites now slumped in 11th in the table, 11 also being the number of points they find themselves behind league leaders Arsenal, some people believe the Merseysiders’ legendary ex-boss should return to fix the problems.

I know Christmas is coming and we’re heading towards the pantomime season – but these suggestions are nothing short of ridiculous.

And damaging to Klopp’s successor Arne Slot and the Dutchman’s array of pricy flops, from £116m Florian Wirtz to £125m Alexander Isak – the two most expensive signings in British football history.

Manchester United were in the same position just over a decade ago, when the likes of David Moyes and Louis Van Gaal had to contend with comparisons to club icon Sir Alex Ferguson when results were bad.

Back then, their own expensive recruits, like Marouane Fellaini and Angel Di Maria, did very little to arrest the Red Devils’ brutal decline.

The fact Fergie still attended games at Old Trafford and was watching on as the fallen giants slipped from greatness to mediocrity did nothing to help the situation.

But looking back on the good times, while pining for the return of a loved one who won it all like Fergie or Klopp, is ultimately self-defeating.

Liverpool’s situation is about the future, not the past.