- The Dutchman claims he could have gone to London or Manchester from Southampton.
- However, is was the manager's personality that convinced him Liverpool would be the right choice.
- Klopp is a great man-manager who knows when to give you a hug and when to 'hammer you in front of the squad', Virg says.
Virgil van Dijk claims it was Jurgen Klopp who actually convinced him to join Liverpool. Surprisingly, the boss didn't even have to talk to Virgil but his personality still played an important role in Van Dijk's decision.
"I had the chance to go to Chelsea and Man City," Van Dijk said as quoted by the Express.
"When you compare the clubs, you look at the history, the town, the current squad, their plans for the near future. But the most important thing you look at is the manager – and Jurgen Klopp is an important reason why I chose for Liverpool.
"Klopp has something special. Is it his energy? Is it his overall image? I sometimes sit and think about what he does and what he has more than others. I think it is his man-management.
"Klopp gives you this great feeling. He is genuinely happy when you walk into the club in the morning. It may sound daft, but that really inspires you as a player.
"He gives every player a hug after the game. It might be a really small detail, yet it feels good for every player. And the next day, he can hammer you in front of the squad in training. But then you accept that too. Because you know it is not personal. That way he can demand a lot from us."
Jurgen's man-management is well known and much spoken about. Combined with the German's tactical knowledge and passion, it makes real stars from good players: just look at our current senior squad.