Jurgen Klopp’s mum Elisabeth dies, with Liverpool manager unable to attend funeral

Desperately sad news

Jurgen Klopp's mother, Elisabeth, has died aged 81. Paying tribute to her in German newspaper, Schwarzwaelder Bote, the Liverpool manager said: "She meant everything to me. "She was a real mum in the best sense of the word. As a devout Christian, I know she is in a better place now." Klopp has also confirmed that, due to current travel restrictions in place due to Covid-19, he is unable to return to Germany for the funeral. "The fact that I can't be at the funeral is due to the terrible times," he added. "As soon as the circumstances allow, we will hold a wonderful commemoration that is appropriate to it." Elisabeth passed away on January 19, with Klopp last visiting her in Germany for her 80th birthday. German authorities have imposed strict restrictions on travel in a bid to prevent the transmission of mutant strains of Covid-19 entering the country - some of which originating in Britain. Klopp and his Liverpool side had been expected to play in the country next week in their Champions League last-16 tie against RB Leipzig, only for the same restrictions to force the game to be moved to the Hungarian capital of Budapest instead.