Liverpool sporting director Jorg Schmadtke has discussed when he could leave the club, while describing himself as Jurgen Klopp’s ‘assistant’.
The 59-year-old came out of retirement at the start of the summer when he was a surprise appointment for Liverpool on a short-term basis, following Julian Ward’s departure.
How long the former Wolfsburg and Hannover sporting director’s time at Liverpool will be remains unclear.
Though it was reported that Schmadtke signed a one-year contract upon his arrival, some have suggested that he is only an interim appointment until a long-term successor to Ward is found and he could even be removed after the summer window closes.
Since his arrival, Schmadtke has endured a somewhat chaotic window, with Saudi Arabia departures and failed bids for Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia dominating the headlines.
However, the German has helped facilitate the arrivals of Dominik Szoboszlai and Wataru Endo, while talks are on for Ryan Gravenberch – all players from the Bundesliga, a market the ex-goalkeeper knows well.
In an interview with Welt am Sontagg, Schmadtke discussed his role at Anfield, describing himself as a ‘service provider’ to Klopp, who remains the most important decision maker at the club.
“I was aware of my position from the outset,” he is quoted as saying. “I knew the job description and went for it. I accept and respect this British combination in general. And in the specific case with Jurgen Klopp as my superior, it’s even easier for me. The name Klopp stands for itself.
“It is well known that things are a little different in England than in Germany. The coach, who is called the manager here, is the decision-maker and determiner.
“So Jurgen Klopp is the pacesetter in Liverpool. In principle, I am a service provider, the assistant for Jurgen and the one who is responsible for the implementation of ideas and activities.”
Schmadtke also clarified his contract situation, confirming that both he and the club will sit down to discuss his future after the transfer window has closed on 1 September.
“A three-month contract? That’s not true,” he said. “We agreed on a year of co-operation and agreed to see what would happen after three months. We sit down together, look each other in the eye and decide how to proceed.
“Both sides are so sovereign and serious that the question is then answered – does it still make sense or not? It could be that we shake hands and part.”
Elsewhere in the interview, Liverpool’s new sporting director revealed how impressed he has been with his employers, saying: “I’m thrilled with this club, fascinated by the atmosphere there. It’s a big club, but it exudes zero arrogance.”
