Early kick-offs at 12:30pm were always an issue for Liverpool under Jurgen Klopp as shown by his record in the fixtures. The German made his feelings clear on 12:30pm kick-offs in the past - especially after featuring in midweek matches and following international breaks. The Arne Slot era will begin with another early kick-off, coming away at Ipswich Town in the Premier League.
When the 2023-24 season came to an end, Jurgen Klopp departed Liverpool after an incredible nine years with the club . For all his success, one thing the German manager won't miss is the early kick-offs he and his team faced during his tenure at Anfield. With the former head coach being known to actively dislike facing 12:30pm start times on a Saturday, especially after playing midweek fixtures beforehand, it's interesting that his first-ever game in the Liverpool dugout was a lunchtime game.
His team drew 0-0 against Tottenham at White Hart Lane in October 2015. Ironically, his successor in the hot seat at Anfield will also begin his career with an early kick-off. Indeed, Arne Slot will take on Ipswich Town away from home at 12:30 in the club's first game of the 2024/25 Premier League season.
None of the members of Klopp's first squad remain at the club, and very few have found success since leaving Anfield. With Klopp's disdain for this time slot well-documented, it's interesting to look at Liverpool's record in 12:30pm kick-offs since 2015. Time will only tell if things improve under Slot.
Liverpoo.