Klopp's Thrilling Anticipation for Liverpool's Revamped Squad | Pochettino's Blunt Take on Transition
Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool faces a thrilling Premier League opener at Stamford Bridge against Mauricio Pochettino's Chelsea, as both managers aim for an impressive start Don't miss the action on Super Sunday, live on Sky Sports Premier League from 4pm Kick-off at 430pm
Jurgen Klopp expresses his enthusiasm for his revamped Liverpool team as they prepare for their Premier League debut against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Super Sunday. The Reds have made notable acquisitions, including World Cup-winner Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton & Hove Albion for £55m and Dominik Szoboszlai from RB Leipzig for £60m. Furthermore, Liverpool's offer of £111m for Moises Caicedo has been accepted by Brighton, setting a new British-record bid.
After a summer exodus of several key players such as captain Jordan Henderson, Fabinho, James Milner, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, and Naby Keita, Jurgen Klopp faces the biggest squad overhaul since taking charge of Anfield. In a press conference before their upcoming visit to west London, Klopp expressed his enthusiasm for this revamped Liverpool FC, calling it a thrilling new beginning.
"People desired changes due to our long-standing unity. Was it timely? That's challenging to ascertain. Nonetheless, it has now occurred, and that is favorable.
"We now possess a fresh leadership team, and even the players outside of that group hold immense value and are truly exceptional. Cody Gakpo is remarkable, Dom Szoboszlai, at the age of 23, captivates Hungary, and Macca (Alexis Mac Allister) is equally impressive."
"We all bear responsibility, so let's embrace it and discover where it leads us. Rather than trying to imitate others, let's strive to become the finest version of ourselves."
Liverpool faced challenges in their previous campaign, concluding in fifth place and failing to secure a spot in the Champions League for the first time during Klopp's tenure.
However, the Reds boss is predicting a better season this time.
"I've seen a lot of things [from the players] that make me think 'we mean business'," he said.
They are eager to participate. We are excitedly anticipating the Europa League draw, although our aspiration is to compete in the Champions League. We are determined to strive for success.
We have set goals, and the positive vibes I am experiencing stem from what I observed throughout the pre-season.
Klopp acknowledges that there have been concerns about Liverpool's defensive performance during pre-season. However, he takes full responsibility for preparing the team for the upcoming campaign. "I cannot attribute my optimism solely to last season. We have had a productive pre-season, putting in the effort and I have personally relished the experience," he expressed. "The players have shown attentiveness and receptiveness to my instructions."
Poch: Being a club in transition cannot be an excuse for Chelsea
"We were determined to enhance our game, as it should be distinct enough to progress to the next stage. You may have witnessed the preseason matches, wherein we were overly exposed and the criticisms were pronounced. This stems from an organizational issue, as we undoubtedly possess the necessary skills, and it is my responsibility to resolve it."
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Mauricio Pochettino, the new Chelsea manager, will not tolerate any excuses for a disappointing season. While acknowledging that Chelsea is going through a transitional phase, Pochettino believes that this status should not be used as a justification if the team fails to meet expectations as the Premier League season unfolds.
The Blues finished in 12th place last season, marking their lowest position since 1993/94. Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter, and Frank Lampard all took turns as the team's manager during a highly disappointing campaign. Pochettino addressed the press at Stamford Bridge prior to the Super Sunday opener against Liverpool, acknowledging the transitional phase that the team is currently going through in comparison to Liverpool, as Klopp has been their manager for seven years.
"Anticipating the transition and foreseeing the future is possible within a span of seven years. By doing so, one can stay a step ahead of potential issues.
"We proudly represent Chelsea, a club with a rich history of victory. Despite being in a transitional phase, it is crucial for us to refrain from conveying the message that we are undergoing a transition. Our main focus should be on achieving victory."
We must be prepared and determined to secure victory over Liverpool, despite their skill as a team. The mindset of both the players and the entire club revolves around fierce competition, resilience, and unwavering belief in ourselves to strive for victory.
There's no room for alternative thinking; it should not serve as an excuse for us. We must display strength in all circumstances.
The Argentine went on to explained why he selected Reece James as the club's new captain.
Chelsea
Liverpool
Sunday 13th August 4:00pm
Kick off 4:30pm
According to him, not only is he a player with exceptional leadership abilities, but he is also regarded as the current figurehead and will continue to hold sway in the future. From my perspective and that of the club, he embodies the ideal player, possessing the qualities necessary to be a captain.
Pochettino, who previously managed Southampton from 2013 to 2014 and Tottenham from 2014 to 2019, expressed his enthusiasm regarding his return to the Premier League.
"I am feeling really positive," he remarked. "I am filled with excitement to be back in the Premier League. Pre-season has kept us occupied, but I am incredibly glad and eager to be here on Sunday, ready to begin the competition."
