Jurgen Klopp has once again criticized Sergio Ramos for his infamous tackle on Mohamed Salah during the 2018 Champions League final, an incident that forced Liverpool’s star player off the pitch and turned the tide in Real Madrid’s favor. Six years later, Klopp still reflects on the challenge, which he describes as “brutal” and indicative of a playing style he strongly disapproves of.

Jurgen Klopp on Sergio Ramos and Mohamed Salah’s Champions League Injury: A Six-Year Grudge

In a recent interview on Toni Kroos’ Einfach mal Lupen podcast, Klopp openly voiced his lingering discontent with Ramos’ actions during the final in Kyiv. Ramos’ controversial tackle, which led to Salah’s shoulder injury, forced Liverpool’s key forward off early, stifling their attacking potential. With Liverpool already up against the reigning champions, the loss of their top scorer proved to be a devastating blow, paving the way for Real Madrid’s 3-1 victory and their third consecutive Champions League title.

For Klopp, the memory of that night and Ramos’ role in the outcome remains vivid. “Is Mr. Sergio Ramos really a good guy?” Klopp questioned, reflecting on the challenge and its aftermath. “He’s not my favorite player. The action was brutal. Of course, he can’t know that it’s bothering his shoulder, but we all know that he accepted it very happily.”

Mohamed Salah’s Champions League Injury: How It Impacted Liverpool’s Campaign

At the time, Mohamed Salah was experiencing one of the best seasons of his career, setting record after record with Liverpool. Entering the Champions League final, his scoring and playmaking abilities were central to Liverpool’s game plan. However, Ramos’ tackle early in the match left Salah writhing in pain on the pitch.

Many fans and analysts deemed Ramos’ tackle “cynical,” noting how he appeared to use his full weight to bring Salah down. The incident not only impacted Salah’s form but also significantly altered Liverpool’s attacking dynamic, leaving Klopp and his team without their star forward in a critical match.

Jurgen Klopp’s Views on Sergio Ramos’ Style: “Not My Kind of Player”

Klopp, known for his emphasis on fair play and respect on the field, made it clear that Ramos’ approach doesn’t align with his ideals. Reflecting on his own players, he remarked, “I never had players like that, and when I did, I made sure they left.” His statement underscores Klopp’s commitment to integrity in the game, distancing himself from what he considers a ruthless style of play.

Despite Kroos’ efforts to defend his former Real Madrid teammate, Klopp remained steadfast in his opinion. “I always thought that my center-backs were good enough not to be involved in actions like that,” he commented, expressing his belief in a clean and sportsmanlike approach to competition.

Sergio Ramos’ Response: Unapologetic Aftermath of the Champions League Controversy

While Ramos later disclosed that he received death threats after the 2018 final, the defender has consistently maintained his stance, stating that his “conscience is very clear.” Ramos, a player who has never shied away from controversy, dismissed the criticism, asserting that he did not owe further explanation.

This remark left many Liverpool fans and neutrals alike questioning Ramos’ commitment to sportsmanship, particularly when the stakes are high. Ramos’ “clear conscience” did little to alleviate the frustration felt by Klopp and the Liverpool camp, who saw the tackle as a turning point in what could have been a historic victory for their side.

Jurgen Klopp and Sergio Ramos: A Rivalry That Still Resides in Liverpool’s Memory

For Liverpool supporters and Klopp himself, the 2018 Champions League final was a pivotal moment that exposed the impact of aggressive play in high-stakes football. Although Liverpool later lifted the Champions League trophy in 2019, the memory of that night in Kyiv still holds weight in Klopp’s mind.

With Ramos now retired and Klopp continuing to lead Liverpool to numerous triumphs, this moment remains a symbol of the challenges Liverpool faced on their path to European glory. Klopp’s views on the incident, now voiced publicly years later, reflect his ongoing commitment to a style of football built on respect, skill, and integrity—qualities he believes should define the game, even in its most competitive moments.

Six Years On: Klopp’s Reflection on the Incident That Shaped His Perspective

As Klopp continues his managerial career, the Champions League final of 2018 serves as a reminder of the complexities and ethical questions in elite football. The ongoing discourse surrounding Sergio Ramos’ tackle reflects broader debates in the sport about the line between competitive play and outright aggression. Klopp’s candid remarks on the Einfach mal Lupen podcast, shared with millions of fans worldwide, reiterate his dedication to fair play and his belief in the kind of game he’s always championed for Liverpool.

For Liverpool fans, Klopp’s latest comments resonate with their own frustrations from that fateful night. Many agree with Klopp, viewing the 2018 Champions League final as a lost opportunity due to what they see as a disregard for sportsmanship.

As Klopp’s Liverpool looks forward, his reflections on that incident emphasize the core values he instills in his team. For Jurgen Klopp, fair play and sportsmanship are non-negotiable, no matter the stakes.