Klopp calls Mourinho "most successful manager in the world"
Liverpool vs Manchester United is the most intense fixture in English football, and come this Sunday, the two teams will face each other at Anfield for their first encounter of the season. While Liverpool are table-toppers, United are trailing at the sixth spot, 16 points behind their weekend opponents. However, Jurgen Klopp has showered praises on United manager Mourinho ahead of Sunday's clash.
What were Klopp's thoughts on Mourinho's team?
Klopp said that despite knowing United are behind in terms of points, he has no doubt about the quality the team possesses. He showered high praises on the likes of Rashford, Lingard, Lukaku, and de Gea, and said that Liverpool will be fighting intensely for the three points. Klopp believes Liverpool must win this fixture at Anfield, which they have not done since 2013.
Klopp and Mourinho have both commented on each other
Mourinho commented that Jurgen Klopp's success at the club will be measured by his contributions to Liverpool's illustrious trophy cabinet which boasts of five European triumphs. "It matters, especially when you have the potential to fight for trophies", said Mourinho. Meanwhile, Klopp opined that Mourinho is the most successful manager in the world.
Both teams have major injury concerns ahead of the clash
Three defenders in Klopp's team will not be starting on Sunday - Matip, Alexander-Arnold and Joe Gomez. This will be a cause for concern for Klopp, but Mourinho also lacks from a fully fit squad, with Marcus Rojo, Chris Smalling, Sanchez, and Lindelof injured. It will be interesting to see how the two managers modify their squads to adjust to these troubled times.
Klopp boasts of an impressive record against Mourinho
Klopp is the manager with the best record against Mourinho. His Borussia Dortmund thrashed Mourinho's Madrid 4-1 in the Champions League in April 2013, with each of the goals being scored by Robert Lewandowski. However, Mourinho has kept United unbeaten for eight matches against Liverpool and will be edging to increase the run. Liverpool have failed to score against United at Anfield since 2015.