KLOPP: WHY I’M SO GLAD I REJECTED UNITED

the right place. Even the weather is better in Liverpool than in Manchester.”

But Klopp admitted it is an honour to be part of Sir Alex’s inner circle – despite rejecting his offer in the spring of 2013, opting instead to commit himself to Borussia Dortmund.

And when United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward (left) launched a second charm offensive when David Moyes’ reign was coming to an end a year later, the German said no once again.

It will come as a shock to both Liverpool and United fans that Klopp and Ferguson have become close friends.

The Liverpool boss said: “I think Sir Alex has forgiven me because we have contact. He texts me. Sir Alex changes his telephone number quite frequently and I always get the new version.

“So that’s a big honour. He texts me to say ‘this is my new number’ and I always think ‘wow.’”

Klopp ended Liverpool’s 30-year wait for the title when he guided them to their 19th championship last season.

And he insists he has no interest in how long his rivals’ title drought may stretch.

He said: “The potential of United is incredible of course so I don’t know about the next 30 years – but who cares?

“Am I surprised they didn’t win the league in the last eight years? No, it can happen that you don’t win the title.

“The only United challenge I am really interested in is when you face them.”