LIVERPOOL, England (AP) — Liverpool’s players have finally got their hands on the Premier League trophy — and Jurgen Klopp was back at Anfield to enjoy the celebrations.
The Reds clinched a record-tying 20th English top-flight title on April 27, but had to wait a month to receive the trophy after their final game of the season — a 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace at Anfield on Sunday.
Klopp, who left as Liverpool manager at the end of last season, returned to Anfield for its campaign-ending party. The German was seen clapping and smiling as the team’s players, starting with captain Virgil van Dijk to a backdrop of fireworks and ticker tape, lifted the trophy.
Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is leaving Liverpool to reportedly join Real Madrid, was given a good reception after coming on as a halftime substitute and again when going up to get the trophy.
He was jeered by some Liverpool fans at a home match against Arsenal two weeks ago. Alexander-Arnold was seen wiping away tears as he celebrated with his teammates on Sunday.
Liverpool finished the season on 84 points, 10 clear of second-placed Arsenal. Manchester City, Chelsea, and Newcastle secured the remaining Champions League places on a dramatic final day of the Premier League season.
Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest were the big losers on Sunday — missing out in the race for the top five.
Villa was left with a sense of injustice after having a goal ruled out against Manchester United just moments before going behind and eventually losing 2-0 at Old Trafford.
A draw would have been enough for Unai Emery’s team on a day when Newcastle lost 1-0 at home to Everton.
Chelsea beat Forest 1-0 to secure a return to the Champions League after a two-year absence. Manchester City ended the season in third place with a 2-0 win against Fulham.
