Sadio Mane: Jurgen Klopp speaks out for the first time since transfer speculation

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has offered his reaction to Sadio Mane's departure to Bayern Munich

Sadio Mane officially joins Bayern Munich

Ever since speculation began about Sadio Mane departure from Anfield, Jurgen Klopp has remained silent.

Mane finalised his move to Bayern Munich on Wednesday morning completing a six-year stint at Liverpool where he scored 120 goals in 260 appearances.

He joined the Bundesliga giants on a three-year deal running until 2025 after a €41m fee was agreed between Liverpool and the German club.

Commenting on the player's exit, Klopp said: "It’s a big moment. There is no point in anyone trying to pretend otherwise. One of Liverpool’s greatest ever players is leaving and we must acknowledge how significant this is.

"He leaves with our gratitude and our love. He leaves with his status among the greats guaranteed. And, yes, he leaves in a moment where he is one of the best players in world football.

"But we must not dwell on what we now lose, instead celebrate what we were privileged to have. The goals he scored, the trophies he won; a legend, for sure, but also a modern-day Liverpool icon.

"Since he first stepped through the door, he made us better. If someone had told us in that moment what he would go on to contribute and achieve for this club, I’m not sure it would have been possible to comprehend in that moment. Not the scale of it at least. Sadio made it all possible."