As Liverpool prepares for a new era under Arne Slot, a look back at Jürgen Klopp's inaugural starting lineup against Manchester United reveals the monumental transformation he orchestrated at Anfield. The German manager, who departed in 2024 having secured the club's first Premier League title in 30 years, a Champions League, and an FA Cup, inherited a squad of capable but unremarkable players. His first derby XI, fielded in 2015, is a fascinating time capsule, filled with names whose careers took divergent paths after their time under his guidance. This journey from that initial team to his final, trophy-laden side underscores one of football's great managerial rebuilds.

In goal for Klopp's first major test was Simon Mignolet. The Belgian shot-stopper was the established number one, but his position became uncertain with the signing of Loris Karius. A brief reinstatement followed Karius's struggles, but the seismic shift came with the £65 million arrival of Alisson Becker in 2018. This world-record signing for a goalkeeper exemplified Klopp's ambition and instantly solved a perennial problem area. Mignolet, relegated to cup duties, eventually sought regular football at Club Brugge in 2019. The contrast between the starting goalkeepers of Klopp's first and last games symbolizes the upgrade in quality and mentality he demanded.

The defensive line that day tells a similar story of evolution. At right-back was the dependable Nathaniel Clyne. Injuries hampered his progress under Klopp, leading to a loan spell at Bournemouth before a permanent move to Crystal Palace in 2020. Remarkably, as of 2026, the 34-year-old recently secured another one-year extension with the Eagles, showcasing his longevity. The centre-back partnership consisted of Kolo Touré and Mamadou Sakho. Touré's time was brief; he was released six months later, enjoyed a swansong at Celtic, and has since moved into coaching, with a short-lived stint at Wigan Athletic. Sakho, initially a favourite who was even handed the iconic number 3 shirt, fell out with Klopp due to disciplinary issues. His career has since taken him across Europe, and he now plies his trade for Georgian side Torpedo Kutaisi.

Completing the back four was left-back Alberto Moreno. The Spaniard remained for four years under Klopp, who often publicly defended him. However, the 2017 signing of Andy Robertson from Hull City for a mere £8 million proved to be one of Klopp's most astute deals, eventually making the position his own. Moreno, after a spell in Spain, now finds himself in Italy playing under Cesc Fàbregas at Como. The transformation in full-back roles—from Clyne and Moreno to the world-class duo of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Robertson—is perhaps the most visually striking change in Klopp's Liverpool blueprint.

The midfield trio selected by Klopp that day became the bedrock of his early years. It featured:

• Jordan Henderson: The future captain and heartbeat of the title-winning side. His leadership and energy were indispensable, though his 2023 move to Saudi Arabia's Al Ettifaq, followed by a swift switch to Ajax, marked a controversial end to his Anfield chapter.

• Lucas Leiva: The experienced Brazilian anchor who was crucial in Klopp's initial system. He left for Lazio in 2017 and later retired at Gremio after heart-related issues.

• Emre Can: The German midfielder, a favourite of his compatriot, known for his engine and spectacular goals. He departed on a free transfer to Juventus in 2018 and has since captained Borussia Dortmund, leading them to the 2025 Champions League final.

Ahead of them, the attacking roles were filled by players whose contributions are remembered fondly. James Milner, signed just before Klopp's arrival, became the ultimate utility man and a vital leader. He stayed until 2023, lifting both major trophies, and at 40 years old, is still chasing Gareth Barry's Premier League appearance record at Brighton. Adam Lallana's technical brilliance was often dimmed by injuries, but he played his part in the glory years before moving to Brighton and then returning to Southampton. The lone striker was Philippe Coutinho, whose creative genius helped propel Klopp's early project before his transformative £142 million sale to Barcelona in 2018—a deal that funded the signings of Virgil van Dijk and Alisson.

It is worth noting that Roberto Firmino, though not in that specific starting XI, arrived in Klopp's first summer and became the tactical linchpin of the famous front three with Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mané. Firmino, the highest-scoring Brazilian in Premier League history, now plays in Saudi Arabia for Al-Ahli. His role exemplifies the kind of intelligent, selfless player Klopp perfected.

The legacy of that first team is clear. Few from that lineup remained for the long-term triumphs. Henderson and Milner became the bridge between eras, while others were upgraded or moved on. Klopp's genius lay in identifying core personalities, improving individuals, and making bold, decisive changes in the transfer market. The team that faced Manchester United in 2025, featuring the likes of Alisson, Van Dijk, and a host of other world-class talents, was almost unrecognizable from the one he first sent out a decade prior. It was a decade defined not just by silverware, but by a complete and thrilling philosophical overhaul, making Anfield a fortress of intensity and belief once more.