Pep Lijnders reveals the question Jurgen Klopp asked before deciding to leave Liverpool

Pep Lijnders has explained the highly-emotional period in which he departed Liverpool last month, plus how his former manager helped inform his decision to take up the position of head coach at 'special club' RB Salzburg.

Lijnders became a highly-respected tactical mind whilst providing key backing Jurgen Klopp during the two coaches' time at Liverpool, eight years of which was shared together. His standing within the club's infrastructure was so great that he was even thought to be a near-perfect replacement for his manager - the pair even privately discussed this - though the Dutchman would also call time on his lengthy stay at Anfield with FSG's backing to succeed elsewhere.

Receiving his big break without any hassle, he was named RB Salzburg's new head coach even before saying an emotional farewell to Anfield in May.

READ MORE: Musiala signs, Diaz decision made - dream Liverpool forward line after summer transfer window

READ MORE: Liverpool midfielder wanted by RB Leipzig as clubs target summer transfer

"The moment I came and signed for Salzburg was probably the moment where I could say goodbye to Liverpool - at least this is how it felt," he said in his first interview in Austria, beginning his new job this weekend. "Knowing that I would go into a club that really suits my ideas, my style of play, the way we want to build with young players.

"It was double [the emotions] because you're signing and then saying goodbye to a club, my boys don't know anything else than Liverpool and England so for the whole family [it is a big change]. But everyone is ready to go, it feels it was the right time - it is the right time."

Whilst the 41-year-old has spent many years as Klopp's most trusted advisor, it appears this relationship is one that goes two ways. It was the German's clear line of questioning that brought the Red Bull project to the forefront of Lijnders' mind as something he could sink his teeth into.

"When we said we were going to leave Liverpool, Jurgen [Klopp] asked me: 'What are you looking for? What should the new club look like?'

"I said they should have a strong academy because I am a guy who loves to work with talent, loves to work with young players and help them to become their best version. That is what my life is about.

"Can you wish for a better club than Salzburg in terms of young players, talent, wanting to make the next step? Then I start studying the squad, the games, and you know there is quality, passion, hunger. In the meantime we have to fight to become champions and fight to show some European ambition as well."

The Reds' former assistant is just starting in his new position, but has already made sure to take in the surroundings of his new home.

"I cannot say one bad thing over this whole process of signing and coming here to this city," he added. "I have been a tourist for a few days first, just walking through the city and feeling the beauty, the power, the class. I am really proud to be here and represent this quality, this specialty. We're representing a special city and special club."

Join our WhatsApp community, sign up to a newsletter or listen to our podcasts HERE