Former Manchester United and England goalkeeper Ben Foster has publicly criticized a Sky Sports reporter for remarks made against former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp during a live broadcast. Foster took to social media to voice his disapproval, arguing that the reporter overstepped the bounds of impartiality expected from a news outlet.
The controversy arose after Jürgen Klopp, speaking from his post-Liverpool role, passionately criticized the ever-increasing football calendar, specifically labeling the expanded FIFA Club World Cup as “the worst idea ever implemented in football.” Klopp’s comments stemmed from long-standing concerns about player welfare and the immense physical and mental toll continuous high-level football takes on athletes, a point he frequently raised during his time at Anfield.
In response to Klopp’s remarks, Sky Sports reporter Kaveh Solhekol reportedly hit back on air, suggesting that if Klopp didn’t like the commercial realities of modern football, he should “go and play padel or go for a swim.” He also questioned whether Klopp, now working with Red Bull, should oppose a tournament from which one of their associated clubs might financially benefit.
Ben Foster, known for his direct and often unfiltered opinions on his popular “Fozcast” podcast and social media, quickly reacted. On his X (formerly Twitter) account, he posted: “Isn’t Kevin Solhekol supposed to be a SSN reporter? Somebody who REPORTS news impartially. NOT somebody who gives their personal opinions on said news.” He added, “I’d say Jurgen Klopp probably has a bit of credit in the bank when it comes to having an opinion on anything football related.”
Foster’s intervention has resonated with many fans who believe that sports journalists, particularly those on major news channels like Sky Sports, should maintain objectivity rather than offering dismissive personal takes on subjects like player welfare, which are increasingly pertinent in the modern game.
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