Diogo Jota becomes first Liverpool player to speak out on Jurgen Klopp's controversial move to Red Bull

Jota refused to get embroiled in any controversy surrounding Klopp's return to football and simply supported his former manager's decision rather than specifically commenting on the role.

The Liverpool forward is the first player from Klopp's old club to come out in support of his decision this week, with people associated with Dortmund claiming the German was "dead to them" following his new career path.

Klopp confirmed this week that his role with Red Bull was "the perfect platform" for him to return to football and continue to learn about the game. But the decision has proven controversial with German football fans due to Red Bull's circumvention of ownership rules, something which Klopp had previously admitted he was against.

Jota told Record in Portugal: “Klopp? He’s a person I have a lot of affection for, we have to respect his decision. I wish him the best of luck in this new stage.”

With Arne Slot now having replaced Klopp as Liverpool manager, the Reds will return to action after the international break by hosting Chelsea next Sunday. Liverpool currently sit top of the Premier League, having only lost once and conceded twice in their opening seven games.

Jota, meanwhile, will face off against Poland and Scotland for Portugal in the Nations League in the coming days.