Jürgen Klopp hints at surprise return in final Liverpool game as 'best' verdict speaks volumes

Liverpool is set to lose more than manager Jürgen Klopp this summer. The club confirmed earlier this week that defender Joël Matip and midfield maestro Thiago Alcântara will also move on at the conclusion of the 2023/24 season.

Both have suffered with multiple fitness issues during their time with the Reds. Matip was having a fine campaign but suffered an injury in the 4-3 win over Fulham in December and that will prove to be his final appearance for the club.

Thiago’s season has been even shorter. His only appearance this term was for the final five minutes (plus stoppage time) of Liverpool’s 3-1 loss at Arsenal three months ago. The former Barcelona man is one of the finest passers the club has ever employed but he has been in the club’s treatment room far too often for it to make the most of his sublime skills.

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However, Reds fans may not have seen the last of the 33-year-old just yet. Liverpool faces Wolverhampton Wanderers at Anfield on Sunday, and speaking ahead of the game, Klopp hinted that Thiago could be set to make a farewell appearance while also paying tribute to his ability.

“In a parallel world, I would have loved to see the career without injuries. He is, I'm not sure the best, but definitely one of the best I ever saw,” he said (via Liverpool World). “He can do things, I'm not sure before that I thought were possible. He is in control of absolutely everything on the pitch.”

“Unfortunately, the body didn't play exactly a part. But he is in a good way, he looked really good yesterday and I'm sure he will want to give it a try again,” Klopp added.

“I told them already thank you for everything they did so I don't think I have to tell you that now. But whoever leaves this club and we worked together in the last few years, they were all brilliant. If they wouldn't have been brilliant they would have left last year, because we don't carry problems with us. I'm really, really thankful for all of them.”

Liverpool.com says: With nothing at stake on Sunday, Klopp could field the tea lady against Wolves and it wouldn't matter in the slightest. Supporters would love to see Thiago ping a few glorious passes across the Anfield turf for the final time in a Liverpool shirt if possible though. It's hard not to wonder what might have been possible for the Reds this season had Thiago been available for even half of the games. Sunday's match might have mattered far more.