Jurgen Klopp Feels Like A Dad”: Liverpool’s Curtis Jones Opens Up On Emotional Bond With Former Boss

In a heartfelt revelation that reflects the deep emotional bonds within the world of football, Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones has described former Reds manager Jurgen Klopp as more than just a coach — he’s “like a dad.”

The candid remark from the 23-year-old England international underscores the profound impact Klopp had not only on Liverpool’s footballing fortunes but also on the personal lives of his players, especially the homegrown talents like Jones who blossomed under his watchful eye.

A Manager, A Mentor, A Father Figure

Speaking in a recent interview, Curtis Jones praised Jurgen Klopp for being more than just a tactical genius. According to Jones, the German manager’s empathy, man-management, and emotional intelligence created a family-like environment at Liverpool — one where players felt safe to grow, fail, and ultimately thrive.

“He’s someone who’s seen like a dad figure,” Jones said. “He gave me my debut, he trusted me, and he always knew how to push me in the right way.”

Klopp handed Jones his senior debut in January 2019 and stood by the youngster through early challenges, injuries, and moments of self-doubt. That nurturing support, Jones admits, shaped both his career and character.

Growing Under Klopp’s Guidance

Jones is one of several academy graduates who flourished under Klopp. Others like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Harvey Elliott have also spoken highly of the manager’s faith in youth. But for Jones, the bond seems especially personal.

His development was carefully managed — Klopp was patient during Jones’ inconsistent patches, always highlighting the midfielder’s potential. That trust was rewarded in the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons, where Jones became a vital part of Liverpool’s midfield transition, especially after a summer of high-profile exits.

Life After Klopp

With Klopp stepping down at the end of the 2024 season after nine unforgettable years at Anfield, the emotional toll on players like Jones has been evident.

“It was emotional,” Jones said when asked about Klopp’s final days at the club. “He believed in me before anyone else did. His words always stayed with me — they gave me confidence when I had none.”

Liverpool have since entered a new era under Arne Slot, and while the mood is optimistic, Klopp’s departure has left a void that players are still adjusting to. Jones, now a more mature and confident player, hopes to carry forward the values Klopp instilled in him — humility, hard work, and team spirit.

The Klopp Legacy Through Jones

Jones’ reflections capture the very essence of Klopp’s legacy — one built not just on trophies, pressing systems, or roaring home wins, but on relationships. For a young Scouser like Jones, growing up in the shadow of Anfield and eventually playing under one of the greatest managers of the modern era, Klopp’s influence has been nothing short of life-changing.

The midfielder now sees himself not just as a player continuing Klopp’s footballing philosophy, but also as a torchbearer of the culture Klopp built — one where belief, unity, and emotional intelligence matter just as much as goals and assists.

As Liverpool moves into a new chapter, the sentiments of Curtis Jones remind fans and players alike that Jurgen Klopp’s impact runs far deeper than silverware. For Jones, Klopp was — and perhaps always will be — more than a manager. He was family.