Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp joked ahead of the UEFA Europa League clash with Borussia Dortmund that he would rather return to the club that he left for Liverpool than be in North Korea. Klopp also played down the inside knowledge he has of Dortmund’s players, opining that opposite number Thomas Tuchel had a different style than his.
Klopp was in his usual effervescent spirits as he faced up to the English and German press ahead of the UEFA Europa League game, saying “I don’t think about my situation for one second. I prepare my team, that’s why I am here at a place where I had a wonderful time. It is better to be here than, I don’t know, North Korea or something. It feels good.”
However, given Dortmund’s 5-1 dismantling of Tottenham Hotspur in the previous round, Klopp might not enjoy his return to Dortmund. Klopp is aware of Dortmund’s status as favourites, but played up Liverpool’s chances as well, saying “Dortmund are in a better moment in their season but we have had good moments and not had the benefit of it in the league table.”
“If we have a good moment tomorrow then next week will be difficult for both teams. If we are not good tomorrow then it will be easier for Dortmund but why should I think about this? We have the highest mountain to climb in Borussia Dortmund but it is possible. It is a real challenge but hopefully for both sides.”
Klopp plays down past knowledge of Dortmund
Klopp guided Dortmund to the most successful period in the club’s history from 2008 to 2015, but played down his knowledge of players he guided, saying “It’s true I know all the players except for Castro and Wiegl but that is not a crucial factor for this game. My players have not come here expecting me to give them a detailed breakdown on every Dortmund player and to tell them whether they turn left or right or play through the middle.”
“We have looked at the way Dortmund play and have seen their development, they are playing attractive football, but my players haven’t travelled here without hope of getting a result tomorrow.”
The city of Dortmund, however is pleased to welcome an old friend, with reports that residents of Klopp’s old neighborhood raising money to present the German with a gift. Klopp was a bit surprised when it was relayed to him, saying “That’s cool but it depends on what it is. Does everyone here really like me?”
Best friends will not deter Klopp from focusing on the game, saying “Ever since the beginning of our lives we have played against our best friends and have always wanted to beat them.”
