Jurgen Klopp's 'eyes' open to foray into management after Anfield exit - but will wait and see
After decades in the shadow of former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, now could be the time to shine for long-time assistant manager Peter Krawietz, who has also left Merseyside this summer after almost nine years with the club.
Krawietz, frequently referred to by Klopp as his 'eyes' (Zeljko Buvac was the 'brain'), has been a pivotal part of the German's career. The pair have been working together since their early days at Mainz in the 1990s and their professional journey has been intertwined ever since.
Klopp was followed by Krawietz to Borussia Dortmund, then Liverpool, culminating in a successful tenure where the pair led the club to Premier League and Champions League glory.
However, their recent exit from the Anfield club has seen them embark on different paths, at least temporarily.
Krawietz back in Germany - for now
Since the end of the season, the former Liverpool manager has relocated to Mallorca in Spain, while Krawietz has returned to his hometown of Mainz in Germany.
In a candid discussion on the Aldo Meets Podcast, Krawietz shed light on his immediate plans with Reds legend John Aldridge.
Emphasising a need for a substantial break, he said he would be "taking time off" for a "minimum half a year, and then let’s see.”
When questioned about potential future roles, Krawietz remained non-committal but open to various possibilities, including management.
"I don’t have a proper idea yet of what to do or what it will be. Is it management or something else? I will take my time," he said.
“[Management isn't] my first target, to be honest, at the moment. It is something I could think about, yes. Let’s see."
West Ham United v Liverpool - Premier League - London Stadium Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp left and assistant manager Peter Krawietz during the Premier League match at the London Stadium, London. Picture date: Sunday November 7, 2021. EDITORIAL USE ONLY No use with unauthorised audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or live services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images, no video emulation. No use in betting, games or single club/league/player publications. PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xZacxGoodwinx 63590068
A reunion with Klopp?
The 52-year-old then acknowledged that Klopp’s future decisions could influence his own, noting, “Let’s see how Jurgen feels, what his plans are and if he has an idea, and if it fits me or not, if he wants me in or not. We will see.”
“So far, I’m open and not decided yet. I don’t want to make a decision now as it is really clear to me that I need to step back a little bit. I want to find my energy and motivation again.”
Klopp, for his part, has underscored his need for a break after 23 years as a first-team manager, though he hinted at a possible return to the sport in a different capacity.
In his final press conference at Liverpool, Klopp said, “I don’t know exactly why nobody believes I probably will not be a manager again, but I understand because, obviously, it seems to be a drug.”
While Klopp and Krawietz seem to be enjoying their well-deserved respite, it wouldn't be too surprising to see them reunited for another new project.
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