Danke, Jürgen. Danke, Tosin

Danke, Jürgen. Danke, Tosin.

“Danke Jürgen” was a banner prominently displayed at Anfield Stadium, home of Liverpool Football Club, during the manager’s final game on home soil. Earlier in the year, Jürgen Klopp had announced that he would step down at the end of the season—a decision that likely shocked Liverpool fans worldwide. As a Liverpool supporter myself, along with my younger son, we were deeply appreciative of the German manager’s transformative impact. Over his nine-year tenure, Klopp restored Liverpool’s glory, painting the club in brilliant red once more.

My admiration for Klopp began during his time at Borussia Dortmund, where he led the club to two Bundesliga titles and revitalized a team that had been struggling before his arrival. When he moved to Liverpool, I found my sentiments aligning with him, despite not being a fan of the club initially. In fact, I often wondered why Ade Ojeikere, a sports journalist with The Nation, was such a devoted supporter of Liverpool—a team I had previously dismissed as a club of faded glory, or “Oba Ana” (king of yesteryears).

However, Klopp’s era changed everything. Under his leadership, Liverpool claimed the Premier League, Champions League, EFL Cup, FIFA Club World Cup, and other honors—trophies that had eluded the club for years. His achievements reignited my enthusiasm, and my son became an ardent fan as well. My other son, however, chose Tottenham Hotspur, drawn by the star duo of Harry Kane and Heung-min Son.

Watching Liverpool matches often leaves me tense, and my instinct is to pray during key moments. However, I sometimes remind myself that God may not concern Himself with the outcomes of football matches! With Klopp’s departure, I wonder if my passion for the club will remain as strong. Still, the banner at Anfield—Danke Jürgen—perfectly captured the gratitude of fans for a manager who gave them renewed pride and countless reasons to smile.

On a similar note, I reflect on another individual who deserves appreciation: Tosin Idowu. Tosin lived in Germany, Klopp’s homeland, and speaks and writes the language fluently. I remember seeing a Facebook post of his written in German. Though I couldn’t understand the content, I was impressed by his linguistic skill—something that feels as challenging to me as advanced calculus. I still struggle with the complexities of Yoruba, especially the diacritical marks, which can feel just as daunting.

Tosin’s love for football is another connection we share. He is an Arsenal fan, and his passion for the club became evident when someone taunted Arsenal FC on a platform, prompting a spirited defense from him. Interestingly, while his brothers were regulars at “Koto,” the football ground near Emmanuel Street in Ojota, Tosin himself was not often seen there. His brothers—the Professor and the eldest—were familiar faces, but Tosin may have been the Otu (the odd one out) in this regard.

In my own family of ten children—nine boys and one girl—such labeling was common. My older brother often teased me about my perceived lack of football skills, even wondering how someone like me could have sons. What he didn’t realize was that I played for Platoon 2 during my NYSC service year and was even considered a “danger man” on the pitch!

My journey into the Magical ’88 Set began after the passing of Obong. I learned about his demise through a Facebook post by Tola and reached out to Jide for more information. During our conversation, Jide assumed I was already a member of the group, which I wasn’t at the time. Initially, I misunderstood the group’s purpose and dynamics, but I’ve since come to admire the dedication and sacrifices made by its members. Behind the scenes, they quietly work to make things better for everyone, creating a supportive and impactful community.

Attending a reunion with the group was a memorable experience. It reconnected me with old friends and demonstrated the far-reaching effects of the association’s efforts. The sense of camaraderie and purpose was truly inspiring.

Tosin Idowu, much like Jürgen Klopp, has left a lasting impact in his leadership role. As President of the Magical ’88 Set, he has transformed the group, leaving it more structured and better positioned for the future. It is only fitting, therefore, to extend the same heartfelt gratitude:

Danke, Tosin.

Uwem Sampson