‘I could’ve joined Liverpool but snubbed them for Chelsea – one thing vindicated transfer’

Timo Werner previously revealed he was close to joining Liverpool before his move to Chelsea – but winning the Champions League with the Blues meant he had no regrets

Timo Werner believes his decision to snub Liverpool for Chelsea was justified by his Champions League victory with the Blues. The German international, currently on loan at Tottenham Hotspur, made a £47.5million switch from Leipzig to Chelsea in 2020, despite interest from the then-Premier League champions.

Jurgen Klopp reportedly wanted to add Werner to his formidable forward line of Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino, and Sadio Mane. However, the 29-year-old chose to join compatriot Thomas Tuchel at Stamford Bridge, where he won three major honours, including the 2021 Champions League title.

Despite his success in terms of trophies, Werner’s overall reputation took a hit during his time in west London after scoring just 23 goals in 89 appearances across all competitions.

His inconsistency in front of goal and failure to replicate his Bundesliga form led to Chelsea selling him back to Leipzig for a reported cut-price fee of £25m in 2022.

Reflecting on his time at Chelsea, Werner admitted that while he had the opportunity to join Liverpool, his European triumph meant he didn’t regret his decision.

Speaking to the Evening Standard, the German forward elaborated on his career choices and his relationship with Klopp: “The only thing I can say is they have a German manager.

“I have known him for many years before, because when I was in Stuttgart, he talked about going to Dortmund. Then I played not so well, so it was done.

“When I was in Leipzig, I had the possibility to come to the Premier League. Liverpool were also in my thoughts and were a big possibility for me.

“But at the end I decided for Chelsea and I won the Champions League title last year. It was not the worst decision.”

Although a move to Liverpool might have been a good fit for him, especially given Klopp’s dynamic playing style, he ultimately he didn’t join the Merseyside club – where he could now have been a Premier League winner in a different timeline.

As a traditional sign of respect, Chelsea are set to be the first team giving champions Liverpool a guard of honour when they meet at the Bridge on Sunday. Kick-off is at 4.30pm in the capital.

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