Wayne Rooney has admitted there is only one Liverpool manager from modern times he would have wanted to play under during his career, singling out Jurgen Klopp as the standout figure.
The former Manchester United and England striker made the comments while reflecting on different managerial styles across the Premier League era, with Klopp’s personality and intensity clearly leaving a strong impression on him.
Rooney was clear that while he has respect for multiple managers associated with Liverpool, Klopp is the only one he felt personally drawn to as a player.
He said: “Klopp was the only Liverpool manager I’ve looked at and thought ‘I’d love to play for him’ – obviously not for Liverpool but for him as a manager.”
That distinction underlines the respect Rooney holds for Klopp’s coaching approach, even while acknowledging the fierce rivalry he had with Liverpool during his playing days at Manchester United.
Jurgen Klopp is back at Anfield for Liverpool's legends game against Borussia Dortmund ?? pic.twitter.com/JMBuRuXS19
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Style and personality key to Rooney’s view
Rooney’s admiration appears rooted in Klopp’s emotional intensity, high-energy football, and ability to build strong relationships with players, all traits that defined his successful spell at Anfield.
The German coach transformed Liverpool during his tenure, leading them to domestic and European success while establishing a distinct identity built on pressing football and emotional connection with supporters.
Rooney also hinted at a contrast between Klopp and current Liverpool boss Arne Slot, suggesting the Dutchman may not yet have the same presence or “aura” associated with Klopp’s leadership style.
Given Rooney’s long career at Manchester United, his praise for a Liverpool manager carries extra weight. The two clubs share one of the most intense rivalries in football, making such admiration relatively rare from either side.
However, Klopp’s reputation across the game has often transcended club rivalries, with many former players and pundits highlighting his influence on English football during his time in charge.
Slot era comparison inevitably follows
Although Rooney’s comments focus on Klopp, they inevitably invite comparison with Liverpool’s current era under Arne Slot, who is still in the process of shaping his own identity at Anfield.
Slot’s tenure has brought a different style and approach, but he is still in the early stages of establishing himself compared to Klopp’s long and highly decorated spell.
Ultimately, Rooney’s view is straightforward: Klopp is the only Liverpool manager he would have wanted to play for.
It is a reflection of the German’s impact not only at Anfield, but across the Premier League, where his influence continues to be measured against those who follow him.
