MY ACCOUNT
Jurgen Klopp is savouring the sporting battle between Liverpool and Manchester City despite the high stakes that accompany Sunday’s possible title decider, describing their rivalry as “cool”.
In order to beat Manchester City in the 2019-20 season and win Liverpool’s first domestic league title in three decades, Klopp’s side had to claim 99 points, achieving a record-equalling 18 consecutive wins.
Whoever claims three points on Sunday would not only earn potentially decisive breathing room in the Premier League title race but would also crack the 75-point mark with seven games still to play.
Speaking at his pre-match news conference, the Liverpool boss made specific reference to the remarkable levels of consistency the two teams have pushed each other to, especially in the traditionally competitive Premier League.
“It’s cool,” Klopp said. “The last four years since we stepped up and could close the gap to City slightly, it’s interesting absolutely. We push each other to incredible points tallies, madness. I would have never thought these kind of things are possible, especially not in this league.
“The consistency both teams have shown in that period is absolutely crazy.
“In sports, what helps you the most is a strong opponent. Especially, [Rafael] Nadal and [Roger] Federer enjoyed a lot the rivalry they had. I wouldn’t say I’m thankful that City is that good but it didn’t deny our development.”
While the rivalry between the two teams and managers is ultimately a contrast in attacking styles, the 54-year-old believes Sunday will primarily provide an exciting contest, removed from what’s at stake.
Yet Klopp admits neither side can ignore how the match impacts respective Premier League title chances.
“Our history with City shows that very often they have been a pretty interesting watch because both teams really go for it and create opportunities, and want to use momentum, gaps and situations, and that’s why I expect an interesting football game, to be honest,” he said.
“A very important game, I’m really looking forward to it. One of the biggest challenges you can face in football, that’s why we do these kind of things. Even if we were 14-15 points behind, would still be a great game.
“I cannot decide what people think, but you can just go through the possible results – we win, we’re two points up and people will think it’s done and dusted. We lose, we are four points behind.”
