Former Liverpool manager, Jürgen Klopp, emphasized that there are more serious things in the world than football after a tragic incident marred what was meant to be a historic celebration for the club and its supporters.
The incident occurred at the end of Liverpool’s Premier League title parade, where a car drove into a crowd of fans, injuring 65 people.
Authorities have arrested a 53-year-old man from the Liverpool area on suspicion of attempted murder and drug use.
Klopp, who was present at the parade despite stepping down from his managerial role a year ago, reflected on the somber turn of events while receiving an award from the League Managers’ Association.
“The mood was incredible and from one second to the other, everything changed because we then learned again there are more serious things in the world than football,” Klopp said during his speech.
“Thoughts and prayers go definitely to the, as far as I know right now, to the injured people, but to the families, of course, as well.
“It should have been one of the greatest days in the history of the city, after a long, long time, because we didn’t have the opportunity to do that the last time.”
The parade had marked the first time fans and the club could openly celebrate a league title together in 35 years.
Liverpool’s 2019/20 title win, under Klopp’s leadership, came during the COVID-19 pandemic, which prevented public gatherings.
In light of the incident, current Liverpool manager Arne Slot withdrew from the same LMA event, where he was scheduled to receive the Manager of the Year award, out of respect for those affected.
“Football is and always should be a game built on rivalry, but it is also a great source of comradeship, especially at times like this,” Slot said in a statement.
“I would also like to pay tribute to the emergency services and other authorities in Liverpool who swung into action as soon as the incident happened.
“Along with the supporters and bystanders who helped one another in an hour of need, I think everyone involved in the aftermath deserves the gratitude of all of us.”
In a rare show of solidarity, rival clubs including Manchester United, Everton, and Manchester City extended their support to Liverpool and its fanbase following the tragedy.
According to police, 11 of the injured victims remained hospitalized as of Tuesday, all reported to be in stable condition.
