Harry Diamond
Jurgen Klopp has called for bravery from his Liverpool side as he prepares to face Manchester City and ‘the best manager in the world’ in Pep Guardiola this weekend.
Liverpool host Manchester City at Anfield on Sunday in a highly-anticipated clash between the division’s top two. The Merseyside outfit currently hold a six-point advantage over the reigning Premier League champions, ahead of a contest which could have huge implications on this season’s title race.
Speaking in the pre-match press conference, Klopp acknowledged the importance of playing at home, but has warned his side that they must be ‘brave’ in order to get anything out of the game.
“The best news is that it is as Anfield, under the floodlights. Everything is on a plate, nobody hides anything. If you are not brave against Man City you don’t have the chance of even a point.
“You have to create, but your positioning and protection must be perfect. It is a lot. It is an interesting game!”
Klopp and Guardiola have exchanged jibes in the build-up to the clash this week, the City boss having ignited somewhat of a war of words after accusing Liverpool forward Sadio Mane of ‘diving’ in recent fixtures.
Despite their recent comments, the two clubs have enjoyed a growing rivalry in modern times and Klopp insists he retains the utmost respect for Guardiola and his success.
“I could not respect him more, for me, he is the best manager in the world,” he added.
“Wherever he is he has an impact on his team and when you take him away you can see the football change. Our relationship is good, it is very respectful.”
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