Some Liverpool fans suggested that Jurgen Klopp wasn’t taking the Champions League ‘seriously’ after he decided to substitute Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino all before the hour-mark.
Liverpool’s attacking trio made way for Takumi Minamino, Diogo Jota and Xherdan Shaqiri in the 59th minute, marking a very surprising decision from Klopp against a talented Ajax side.
Some fans joked that the move showed that the German is treating Europe’s elite club competitions like domestic cup competitions – the FA Cup and Carabao Cup (League Cup).
Despite the fact that the Premier League champions were winning 1-0, taking off the side’s biggest goal threats could’ve ended in disaster if Ajax managed to equalise.
Here’s how some of the Liverpool faithful reacted to the unexpected decision:
Klopp barely takes the champions league seriously and we expected him to pretend to be arsed about the league and FA cup hahahahaha
— Nate (@NateGuildea) October 21, 2020
Seriously Klopp??? Man that’s an statement……..????.
— Chrysler (@Chrysler1804) October 21, 2020
Does Klopp think he’s playing in the League Cup because the champions league shares the same initials?
— J-O (@Jordan81814) October 21, 2020
Klopp treating the Champions league like the Carabao is very 2020.
— Drebin (@CalvLyfeson) October 21, 2020
Who is gonna tell Klopp this isn’t the FA cup
— Thijs??? (@ThijsRobbo6) October 21, 2020
Who is gonna tell Klopp this isn’t the FA cup
— Thijs??? (@ThijsRobbo6) October 21, 2020
Klopp just made FIFA subs #LFC #YNWA #UCL #ChampionsLeague
— J-C (@JC_mabaso) October 21, 2020
With Klopp’s decision – like many of his that are questioned – going right, Liverpool’s superstar attackers were saved from playing for another 30 minutes.
This is undoubtedly a boost with the Reds host Sheffield United in the Premier League on Saturday.
Klopp’s bold move will also make it clear to the front three that they can be taken off at any time, with experienced players like Jota and Shaqiri on hand to replace them if needed.