Jurgen Klopp Emotionally Reflects On Sadio Mane's Liverpool Career, Calls Him 'Modern-Day Icon'

​Jurgen Klopp has emotionally reacted to Sadio Mane's Liverpool exit, calling him one of the club's greatest ever players. 

​Mane has completed his switch to Bayern Munich in a transfer worth up to £35 million, penning a contract until 2025. 

His move brings to an end a legendary six-year spell at Anfield, having scored 120 goals - notably winning the Premier League and the Champions League. 

Klopp has reflected on the Senegalese international's impact as he hailed his stint at Liverpool in gushing praise. 

"It's a big moment. There is no point in anyone trying to pretend otherwise," the German boss told LFC. 

"One of Liverpool’s greatest ever players is leaving and we must acknowledge how significant this is.

"The goals he scored, the trophies he won; a legend, for sure, but also a modern-day Liverpool icon."

Klopp added: "I remember last season I was asked, in an interview or Q&A from memory, to describe Sadio in three words. I said at the time it’s not possible to do this.

“If I was to try I’d need to be allowed multiple attempts – because there are so many ways you can describe him using three words; World-class player! True club legend! Ideal role model! The perfect teammate! Compassionate, caring person!

"But the three words that feel the most appropriate today are also the hardest to say, 'Will miss you!'"

​Mane has been an integral part of Klopp's system since his arrival from Southampton in 2016. 

He forged a lethal attacking partnership with Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah, winning almost every major honour available to him. 

Mane himself also issued an emotional farewell following his Liverpool departure.