Ex-Liverpool striker Fernando Torres visited the AXA Training Centre on Friday specifically to watch Jürgen Klopp and his coaching staff in action.
Torres, who currently serves as the head coach of Atletico Madrid U19s, returned to Merseyside this past weekend following his team’s triumph over AFC Ajax at Anfield with LFC Legends.
To develop his coaching career and gain an exclusive behind-the-scenes look, the Spaniard returned to the city a second time and spent a day with the Reds’ senior team, Academy, and staff.
Torres worked with the Academy and, following a conversation with the manager, received senior level training at Kirkby. He’ll be at Anfield on Sunday to watch Brighton & Hove Albion play in the Premier League.
“A lot of things,” he said in response to the question of what he could learn from the day as a rookie coach. The players are iNFLuenced by Jürgen and his staff’s charm and character, which may be the most significant aspect. The fact that he treats everyone like family is, in my opinion, the most significant factor.
“It’s fantastic that I’ve been able to observe how everything operates from the inside,” Torres said to Liverpoolfc.com. “The AXA training facility is much different from when I was here, and I’m a huge supporter of Jürgen and his staff there. It’s evident that the club is growing, and I get to witness why.
“There are many reasons but it’s amazing to be here and to be able to meet with Jürgen, Pep [Lijnders] and all the staff to learn and try to understand the Liverpool way.”
“It’s the same heart,” he continued. Seeing Smally (Paul Small) and Chris (Morgan), who were here when I was performing, as well as Carol and Caroline in the kitchen brings me great joy. The group is obviously growing and attracting more and more new members, but the enthusiasm and emotions remain the same.
The fact that you maintain that foundation and the family dynamic while they grow and improve at the same time is quite pleasing to observe. The future appears promising.
“I firmly believe in the camaraderie that exists amongst the players, staff, employees, and other club members. It’s essential to acting in this manner. It’s rather pleasant to know that they share my perspective from the inside.
