“Is the best coach in the world”
Before game of the year, Klopp ennobles his rival
4/8/2022, 7:24 p.m
It’s game of the year. Not just in the Premier League, but in European football in general. Manchester City with Pep Guardiola host Liverpool and Jurgen Klopp. Both teams are separated by a point in the table. The German coach tries it in advance with a praise.
Jürgen Klopp praised his fellow coach Pep Guardiola in the highest tones before the potentially decisive title duel in England between Liverpool and Manchester City. “He’s the best coach in the world,” said the Liverpool coach before the top game in the Premier League on Sunday (5:30 p.m. / Sky). “If someone doubts him, I have no idea why.” The Catalan thanked him for the recognition but replied: “I’m not the best. I’d like to say I’m the best, but I’m not.”
Defending champions Man City go into the top game with a one-point lead. However, Liverpool have won their last ten league games and, like Sunday’s opponents, have good prospects of reaching the semi-finals of the Champions League. Klopp therefore compared the title fight between the two clubs, which had been going on for years, with tennis stars Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. “They enjoyed their rivalry,” he said. “I wouldn’t say I’m grateful that City are doing so well, but it hasn’t hurt our development.”
Klopp therefore expects an “interesting football game”. “The history of the two teams shows that the duels were often very interesting because both teams give everything.” The first leg ended 2-2, goals have recently been scored between the two clubs. According to the Liverpool coach, there will be no decision in the title fight on Sunday. “If we win, we’re two points ahead. If we lose, we’re four points behind. If we draw, we’re one point behind. Does anyone think it’s decided then?” asked Klopp.