Fernando Torres says Jurgen Klopp has had the greatest influence on his approach to coaching as he continues to build a career in management.
The former Spain international began his coaching journey with Atletico de Madrid’s youth academy in 2021, before moving into charge of the club’s B team in 2024.
After two solid seasons in the role, Torres was linked with a move away from Madrid during the summer. However, he decided to remain with Atletico de Madrid.
Torres has since been suggested as a possible long-term successor to Diego Simeone in charge of the first team, while a return to the Premier League has also been mooted.
Speaking to Marca in a wide-ranging interview, Torres outlined the coaches who have shaped his thinking and identified former Liverpool manager Klopp as the biggest influence on his development.
“I've learnt from all the coaches I've worked with, but once I focused on wanting to be a coach, the one who really made a mark on me was Jurgen Klopp,” said Torres.
The former striker was given the opportunity to observe Klopp’s work at Liverpool during the manager’s final season at the club.
“I was lucky enough to see him work for a week, as he invited me to Liverpool in his last season, and what you see in his teams,” Torres added.
“That dynamism, that directness, the way they press, the intensity, how people connect with the idea, especially in England with that end-to-end football that I love so much.”
Torres also highlighted Klopp’s influence inside the dressing room and the relationship he established with his players.
“His leadership in the dressing room. I was fortunate enough to be in the team talks, to be at the hotel, to be there when he announced the starting lineup, and to see that mutual respect between coach and players, how they embrace an idea and believe it's the best,” he said.
Although his time observing Klopp was brief, Torres said the experience changed his understanding of how a team’s identity is developed.
“I wasn't there for very long, but he made me realise the image you want your team to project comes from training,” he said.
“I saw it in training and in matches, his personality is tremendous.”
Torres remains with Atletico de Madrid’s B team as he continues to gain experience, while speculation continues over whether he could eventually succeed Simeone or return to English football.