Champions League qualification
2016/17 was a defining moment for Jurgen Klopp as he restored Liverpool’s Champions League status, finishing just a point above Arsenal in fourth-place following a final day 3-0 win over Middlesbrough.
The Reds headed into the match on the back foot, having dropped points twice in their previous four games. Thus, Manchester City leapfrogged them into third. And there was a serious danger of Arsenal, who were on a four-match winning run, knocking them out of the top-four.
Despite extending their winning run to five matches, however, the Gunners had to settle for fifth as Klopp’s side defeated Middlesbrough. It was only the second time in eight seasons Liverpool had qualified for the Champions League.
“I’m really looking forward to next season. I think we have created a wonderful base,” said Klopp later on.
Liverpool went on to reach the final itself during the following season.