The initiative, unveiled on June 26, 2025, at Anfield, sees the iconic German’s likeness projected during key moments to boost morale, leveraging technology first showcased when Klopp appeared as a hologram for a 2017 Audi Cup press conference.
The move has sparked excitement and debate, with fans and players reacting to the return of the beloved figure who led Liverpool to Premier League and Champions League glory.
Klopp, who stepped down as Liverpool’s manager in May 2024 after a trophy-laden tenure, including the 2019 Champions League and 2020 Premier League titles, is no longer coaching after taking a role as Red Bull’s Head of Global Soccer in January 2025.
However, his emotional connection to Liverpool and the city—where he was awarded the Freedom of the City in 2022—prompted the club to create this innovative tribute. The hologram, developed with Silicon Valley-based tech firm Zone7, uses AI to project Klopp’s likeness, complete with his trademark fist pumps and passionate gestures, triggered during critical match phases like defensive stands or attacking surges.
Current manager Arne Slot, who guided Liverpool to the 2024/25 Premier League title, endorsed the project, saying, “Jürgen’s spirit is part of Anfield’s DNA. This keeps his energy with us.” The hologram draws on archived footage and Klopp’s tactical insights, programmed to reflect his “heavy metal football” philosophy—high pressing and relentless intensity.
It’s not a coaching tool but a symbolic presence, appearing on the touchline during moments of struggle, as seen in a trial during a pre-season friendly where Liverpool rallied from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 against Tottenham.
Fans are divided. Some, posting on social media, call it a “genius way to honor Jürgen,” with one user noting, “Seeing his fist pumps again gave me chills!” Others argue it overshadows Slot, with a fan commenting, “Let Arne have his moment—this feels like clinging to the past.” Players, including Virgil van Dijk, have embraced it, with the captain saying, “It’s like Jürgen’s still with us, pushing us forward.” With new signings like Florian Wirtz and Milos Kerkez settling in, Klopp’s holographic presence aims to galvanize Liverpool’s pursuit of more silverware, blending nostalgia with cutting-edge technology.
