Klopp blasts broadcasters, blames fixture pile-up for European woes | OneFootball

Outgoing Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has launched a scathing attack on broadcasters, particularly TNT Sports.

He blamed the relentless fixture schedule for English clubs’ disappointing showing in European competitions this season.

Klopp took aim at the demands placed on them and suggested the broadcasters have become ‘squeezers’ rather than partners of the sport.

When pressed on Liverpool’s European exit against Atalanta, Klopp responded: “But the Premier League is the best league in the world.

“It’s not overrated – the players are overworked. Someone needs to help.”

His frustration stems from TNT Sports’ aggressive scheduling of Liverpool for Saturday lunchtime kick-offs.

The broadcaster holds the rights to the 12.30 pm slot and has used it six times with Liverpool this season – the maximum number they can schedule.

“I had a discussion with colleagues from my favourite TV channel, which I will definitely not watch again – TNT,” Klopp added.

He countered the argument that broadcasters financially support the game, saying that ‘football pays them’.

Klopp’s criticism was not only about Liverpool. He pointed out that Manchester City and Arsenal have also been knocked out of the Champions League, stating that it is a warning sign.

Liverpool’s April schedule was jampacked with fixtures. They played eight games in 30 days.

The Reds have had an eight-day break between their last fixture against West Ham United and the Tottenham showdown.

Klopp used the opportunity to give his team three days off.