David Wagner can both understand and relate to Jurgen Klopp's decision to step down as Liverpool manager at the end of the season. 

The Norwich City head coach enjoys a close and long-standing friendship with the Reds chief stemming back to their playing days at Mainz. 

Klopp's announcement of his decision to leave Anfield after this season took the footballing world by shock on Friday morning. The 56-year-old cited a lack of energy to continue the intensity of the role as the main factor behind that decision. 

Wagner has known for a period of time, and believes the decision offers an insight into Klopp's character and personality. 

"I wasn't surprised, but when he told me, I was happy for him," Wagner said. "I know how hard and difficult this decision was and is.

"It shows a lot of personality, character and bravery to make this decision, but I think only he knows what is best for him. We both know how exhausting and challenging this business can be - nobody has more understanding of this decision than I do.

"If he knows that it is the best for him, then I'm happy for him. He will have a great time ahead of him for sure."

Wagner has an understanding as a fellow football coach, but also experienced a similar situation when he departed Huddersfield Town in 2019, explaining that he was running on empty after helping them reach and stay in the Premier League against all odds. 

Klopp has maintained a career at the highest level for a prolonged period of time, and ahead of their meeting on Sunday, Wagner paid tribute to his best friend's longevity in the game, even if he knows the news will make it harder for his City side this weekend. 

"Nobody should underestimate that he has been in this job for 22 or 23 years with only three months in between Dortmund and Liverpool where he had a very short break," Wagner said.

The Pink Un: David Wagner shared his pride at Jurgen Klopp's decision to leave Liverpool and his management career.David Wagner shared his pride at Jurgen Klopp's decision to leave Liverpool and his management career. (Image: PA Images)

"There were not a lot of football clubs where he was open to shortening his break, but Liverpool was one of them. In every business, when you work for 25 years, there is a moment when you feel it, even if you enjoy it.

"At the highest level, it is unbelievable - not just the success but the consistency. The best thing for me, and only the people who know him well and very closely can judge this, is that he is still the same person he was 35 years ago. That is extraordinary.

"This is one of the occasions where you like to be involved if you are a football player. It is a difficult task with the news today, but to be the first one that he faces on his goodbye tour makes it even bigger."