Jurgen Klopp is set to return to Anfield, stepping back onto the Liverpool touchline, albeit not for a competitive fixture. The former Liverpool manager has been confirmed to take part in a charity match featuring Liverpool Legends against Borussia Dortmund Legends, scheduled for late March 2026.
In this special encounter, Klopp will serve as an assistant coach, joining Liverpool legend Sir Kenny Dalglish on the sidelines. His role marks a unique return to the club where he spent nine remarkable years, bringing both memories and experience to the iconic charity fixture.
Liverpool Legends Coaching Team
Alongside Dalglish, other Liverpool icons such as Ian Rush and John Aldridge will also participate in the coaching setup. The event is set to take place at Anfield on Saturday, March 28, 2026, with all proceeds going to the LFC Foundation. This foundation serves as Liverpool FC’s official charitable partner, having previously appointed Klopp as an honorary ambassador following his departure from the managerial role in 2024.
The match provides a platform not only to raise funds for a worthy cause but also to celebrate the rich history of Liverpool and its connections to other clubs, particularly Borussia Dortmund.
Emotional Significance of the Match
The charity match carries deep emotional meaning for both clubs and fans. Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund share a historical bond, highlighted by traditions such as singing “You’ll Never Walk Alone” before kickoff at Anfield. This fixture also coincides with the ten-year anniversary of their dramatic encounter in the 2015/2016 Europa League quarterfinals.
During that memorable European tie, Liverpool advanced to the semifinals with a 5-4 aggregate victory over Dortmund. In the second leg at Anfield, Klopp’s side—then in his debut season as Liverpool manager—fell behind twice, only to have Dejan Lovren score the decisive injury-time goal to secure progression for the Reds.
Although Liverpool eventually lost the Europa League final to Sevilla, the match against Dortmund remains one of the most iconic European nights at Anfield in the modern era. Klopp’s return now offers fans a chance to relive these historic memories, this time in a charitable and celebratory context.
Klopp’s Career at Liverpool
Jurgen Klopp spent nine years managing Liverpool before stepping down at the end of the 2023/24 season. During his tenure, he transformed the club into a dominant force both domestically and internationally. Klopp led Liverpool to eight trophies, including ending a 30-year wait for a league title, lifting the Premier League in 2019/20.
Under his guidance, Liverpool also secured the UEFA Champions League and the FIFA Club World Cup. The Reds reached two additional Champions League finals in 2018 and 2022, though both ended in defeats to Real Madrid. Klopp’s impact at Liverpool extended beyond trophies, as he instilled an attacking, high-press style and a culture of resilience and teamwork that has endured beyond his departure.
Revisiting Dortmund
Before his success in England, Klopp established his managerial reputation at Borussia Dortmund, where he spent seven years from 2008 to 2015. At Dortmund, he won consecutive Bundesliga titles, including a league and DFB-Pokal double in his second championship season. Klopp also claimed two DFL-Supercups and guided Dortmund to the 2013 Champions League final, showcasing his ability to compete at the highest European level.
Returning to Anfield for the charity match offers Klopp the unique opportunity to reconnect with two clubs that significantly shaped his career. It is both a celebration of his managerial journey and a chance to honor the legends who paved the way for future generations.
The Role of the Charity Match
While the match is not competitive, its significance cannot be understated. The charity fixture highlights Klopp’s continued commitment to Liverpool and the wider football community. As an assistant coach alongside Dalglish, Klopp’s presence reinforces the strong bond he maintains with the club and its legends.
The game also provides a platform to raise awareness and funds for the LFC Foundation, supporting charitable initiatives linked to children, education, and local communities. Fans will witness not only a nostalgic football display but also a positive contribution to society, combining sporting spectacle with philanthropy.
Anticipation Among Fans
Liverpool supporters are eagerly awaiting Klopp’s return to Anfield, even in a non-competitive role. His presence evokes memories of the club’s triumphs under his leadership and symbolizes a bridge between Liverpool’s rich history and its future. The match promises both entertainment and an emotional reconnection for fans, former players, and the football community alike.
Legacy and Impact
Klopp’s return underscores his enduring legacy at Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund. At Liverpool, he remains a transformative figure, remembered for his tactical ingenuity, motivational skills, and the ability to instill belief in both players and supporters. At Dortmund, he laid the foundation for his managerial philosophy, emphasizing teamwork, intensity, and attacking flair.
This charity match offers an opportunity for reflection, celebration, and giving back. Fans will witness Klopp’s leadership in action once more, bridging eras of football history while supporting a worthy cause.
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