‘He is the best’… Jurgen Klopp says Man City have someone who is above anyone else 

Redaction Simon Brett with James Thompson
Published on 2024-03-08 16:30:00

Jurgen Klopp recently praised Manchester City head coach Pep Guardiola as the best manager in the world.

As their teams prepare to face off at Anfield in what could be their last Premier League meeting, Klopp expressed admiration for Guardiola’s coaching prowess.

Reflecting on their rivalry, Klopp credited Guardiola for making him a better manager.

In a press conference leading up to the match, Klopp commended Guardiola’s winning mentality and constant desire for excellence.

He said: “All the trophies he’s won but you see him on the side and it is like he has never won one before. The desire, I do the job myself so I see excellence when I face it.

“So many different things over the years he did with his teams, always possession-based but some times long balls, Ederson in years ago and then [Sergio] Aguero waits and it is difficult to defend. So many different things over the years. How can I judge managers from the past? In my lifetime Pep is the outstanding manager.

“I was never frustrated [against Guardiola]. I knew 3000 footballers better than me but I still loved the game so I have no problem with that. Never frustrated me, he made me a better manager. I have a positive record against Pep but I have no clue how that happened. I know I am quite good at what I do. I don’t want to sound like I am just happy to be here, I know I am not bad but he is the best.

“Most of the time I do the job without facing Guardiola. It’s much too detailed to say now [why he’s better]. I cannot say where but there might be areas where I am better, I don’t know. I cannot make these differences now. Maybe it is a question of taste? Some people might like the way we play more. I do, by the way, otherwise we would play differently.”

Throughout their encounters, Klopp has enjoyed a positive record against Guardiola, winning 12 out of 29 matches against the Spaniard.

Guardiola, in turn, has acknowledged Klopp’s influence on his managerial style, emphasizing the mutual respect between the two elite coaches. This reciprocal admiration underscores the competitive yet respectful relationship they share.

Considering Guardiola’s impressive trophy haul and consistent success, Klopp’s declaration of him being the best manager in the world holds weight.

Both coaches have pushed each other to grow and evolve, setting a high bar for excellence in modern football management.

As they prepare to face off once again, the mutual respect between Klopp and Guardiola adds an intriguing layer to their storied rivalry.

Read Original article on Manchester City News