Jurgen Klopp has described his Liverpool players as "unbelievable" and backed them to go from strength to strength next season.
The Reds secured a top-four spot on the final day of the Premier League campaign thanks to their 4-0 win over Brighton & Hove Albion at Anfield.
Klopp acknowledged that Manchester City were effectively in a league of their own this term and was pleased to have edged Liverpool into the Champions League places.
In addition, the former Borussia Dortmund coach paid tribute to Mohamed Salah, who won the Golden Boot with 32 goals and set a new Premier League record for the highest number of goals by one player in a single 38-game campaign.
"What the boys did this season was unbelievable," the German told Sky Sports News at full time.
"We missed Adam Lallana for the whole year and I can't believe we have achieved this without him. I'm really proud of the boys, a nearly perfect season. We had no chance to challenge Man City so the only thing you can go for is a Champions League spot. It is a big thing.
"When everyone tells you you are fantastic all season it is hard to stay on track so I am pleased with Mohamed Salah. Congratulations to Man City, it is incredible to get 100 points, Thoroughly deserved. We need more consistency to challenge and a little bit more luck with injuries.
"We have got a lot of experience from this season. We have matured and we will do that again. In our good moments it is not easy to play better football. We will add to the squad, we need more players but I'm a big believer in developing the team. These boys made a big step."
Liverpool will also be contesting the final of the Champions League at the end of May, locking horns with Real Madrid in Kiev.
Giuseppe Labellarte
