Jurgen Klopp has made his mind to step out as Borussia Dortmund manager in the summer after seven years in charge.
Klopp asked Dortmund to terminate his contract this summer as he “no longer feels he is the perfect coach for the club” and ‘I believe that Borussia Dortmund actually needs a change’. He also insisted his decision to leave Dortmund is not because he is feeling tired or exhausted.
Borussia Dortmund head coach Jurgen Klopp announces he will leave the club at the end of the season.
The 47-years old lifted 2 league titles and one German cup during his time at Borussia Dortmund.
Klopp has put Premier League clubs on alert with his decision to quit Dortmund. Arsenal and Manchester City will battle for Klopp signature in the summer.
Hans-Joachim Watzke, CEO of Dortmund confirmed Klopp departure in the press conference.
Klopp said: ‘As
Watzke, Dortmund CEO said: ‘We had talks with Jurgen in the last days and came to the mutual decision that the way will end at the end of the season.
‘It has been difficult for us because we have a very special relationship with each other. You can be certain that all the Borussen will forever be thankful to you.’
Dortmund sporting manager Michael Zorc told Klopp: ‘I think we wrote a modern fairytale in the last years with you as the key figure, Jurgen.
‘Everyone at BVB, especially the players, should give you the send-off you deserve in the next weeks.’
‘I don’t think of it as a load off my shoulders. I’m not tired, even though I look like this.
‘I have had no contact with another club, but I am not planning a sabbatical.’
‘I am sure that the decision is absolutely right. This team deserves to have the absolutely one hundred per cent right coach.
‘I believe that Borussia Dortmund actually needs a change. A major problem certainly is – as long as I’m here, we are always considering the successes of the past.’
Reportedly former Mainz boss Thomas Tuchel stands as the biggest favourite to replace Klopp on Dortmund’s bench.