Transformer

Klopp, the Revolution of a Club and Culture

By: Neil Atkinson

Narrated by: Neil Atkinson

'Does anyone in this room think that I can do wonders? I’m a normal guy from the Black Forest . . . I am the "normal one"' Jurgen Klopp, 9 October 2015

Jürgen Klopp’s announcement in January 2024 that he was to step down as Liverpool manager at the end of the season would see an unprecedented outpouring of grief from his adopted city. The Anfield Wrap has followed Liverpool through nine remarkable years, ten cup finals, and eight trophies, and now the ‘normal one’ is finally set to return to a normal life.

But the story of Klopp and Liverpool is a special one. A city haunted by tragedy and economic hardship rapidly found itself reinvigorated and redrawn by one man's philosophy, and an approach to life and football that was driven by joy, passion and inclusivity. Klopp’s arrival led not only to spectacular footballing success, but also saw Liverpool itself becoming more culturally relevant than at any point since the height of Beatlemania.

Neil Atkinson, host of The Anfield Wrap, tells the story of this unique relationship with a passion, zeal and humour befitting of the man himself. Structured around nineteen notable games in Klopp’s Liverpool career, Atkinson expertly weaves the personal and the political into this retelling of one of football's most improbable journeys, one that would change both the landscape of the sport and the city of Liverpool forever.

©2024 Neil Atkinson (P)2024 Canongate Books Ltd

journey down the last decade

incredibly well written and enjoyed every minute of it. Will likely listen again and can’t say enough about the quality of Neil’s work.

An incredible tribute

I listened to this book on a long road trip recently and just loved it. It had me nodding along, laughing, on the verge of tears, and at times scowling as I remembered the highs and lows. Atkinson is a talented storyteller, both through writing and speaking, and I found myself so compelled by his narrative. I’ve already pre-ordered the physical book, too — this is one I’ll read through and listen to again.

Brought to Life

Neil is talking right to you, the listener. The rather imperfect, editing made it more perfect, and the effort so appreciated. Plus the offside commentary you won’t get from the printed version adds to what the author is saying. I was one who asked about an audio version being blind, so if I could, I’d personally thank Neil for doing this.

Great book, worthy of listening

It is well written and spoken. The book relives the best and worst moments of being a Liverpool supporter with such detail, it is like living it all over again.

Up the Reds

Neil, as always, delivers. Loved the presentation. Must listen for the asides, and the energy put into each key game description