Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has voiced his discontent over losing key players Mohamed Salah and Wataru Endo as they depart for international duty this month, with Salah heading to the Africa Cup of Nations with Egypt and Endo representing Japan in the Asian Cup.
In a press conference addressing the departure of the star players, Klopp did not shy away from expressing his feelings.
“I said if I wish you good luck it would be a lie. From a personal point of view, I would not be overly unhappy if they went out in the group stage, but it is probably not possible,” Klopp admitted.
Despite his personal reservations, Klopp maintained a professional outlook, acknowledging the inevitability of their international commitments.
“But no, it’s fine; of course, I would be happy for them to go on and win it. I said good luck and come back healthy – that is pretty much the words, and that is it.
Now we have to deal with it, and we will deal with it,” he added.
The Liverpool boss expressed optimism about finding solutions to cope with the absence of Salah and Endo during this crucial period.
“I am pretty positive we will find a way, but obviously we have to show that on the pitch,” Klopp asserted.
Salah, Liverpool’s top scorer and a crucial attacking force, will be representing Egypt in the prestigious Africa Cup of Nations, while Endo, a defensive stalwart, will play a pivotal role for Japan in the Asian Cup.
As Liverpool navigates through this challenging period without two key players, Klopp’s ability to adapt and rally the team in their absence will be closely watched.
The Reds’ faithful will be anticipating the manager’s strategic moves as they aim to maintain their competitive edge in domestic and European competitions.
