Fernando Torres, a former striker for Liverpool, made a special trip to the AXA Training Centre on Friday to observe Jürgen Klopp and his coaching team in action.
Torres, the head coach of Atletico Madrid U19s at the moment, was back on Merseyside this past weekend after leading LFC Legends to victory over AFC Ajax at Anfield.
In order to have a unique behind-the-scenes look and to further his coaching career, the Spaniard made a second trip back to the city and spent a day with the Reds’ senior team, Academy, and staff.
“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.
After speaking with the manager, Torres trained at the senior level in Kirkby after working with the Academy. He will be present at Anfield on Sunday for the Premier League matchup between Brighton & Hove Albion.
When asked what as a rookie coach he could take away from the day, he replied, “A lot of things. Perhaps the most important factor is Jürgen’s and his staff’s charisma and character with the players. The most important thing, in my opinion, is that he treats everyone like family.
“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.
