Markus Babbel hails Jurgen Klopp for bringing the Liverpool he knows back
Jurgen Klopp has restored greatness to Liverpool even if he doesn’t deliver the Premier League trophy, says former Reds defender Markus Babbel.
Jurgen Klopp has restored greatness to Liverpool even if he doesn’t deliver the Premier League trophy, says former Reds defender Markus Babbel.
The Western Sydney coach and former German international is taken with the transformation his compatriot has choreographed since arriving on Merseyside in 2015, bringing the long-suffering club to the brink of a first title in 29 years and returning it to Europe’s top echelons.
“Jurgen Klopp is doing a fantastic job there,” Babbel told The Daily Telegraph.
“I know him, he’s a great guy. He’s absolutely the same as how he worked in Germany.
“Even if they can’t win a trophy, for me it makes not a big difference because I like how Liverpool are playing.
“I like the culture he’s brought into the club, the belief. They’re fantastic to watch. The name ‘Liverpool’ is back. This is a big achievement from him.”
Babbel, who was part of Gerard Houllier’s 2000-01 treble-winning cup squad, hoped his old club would go on to claim the Premier League.
But acknowledged the race is “in Manchester City’s hands” after City’s 2-0 derby win over Manchester United at Old Trafford on Thursday.
It lifts Pep Guardiola’s reigning champions a point ahead of Liverpool with three games to play.
Add that Klopp’s side must still balance their fixtures with a Champions League semi-final tie against Barcelona.
“I hope in the end they have one trophy in hand because a semi-final against Barcelona is not the easiest draw,” Babbel said.
“If someone can beat them I’m sure it will be Liverpool.
“I really wish it for Klopp because he’s always lost a final here and lost a final there.
“Always second. But it’s not fair because he’s doing an amazing job there.
“For the Premier League I really hope and cross the fingers. It’s in City’s hands, this is the problem. They have to wait for a mistake.
“I have the feeling Liverpool realise now they have a massive chance. I don’t believe they will drop many points anymore. They look strong, they believe they can it. This is very important.
“But also Man City look like this and they have a bit bigger squad, bit more quality from the bench.”
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