Jurgen Klopp has backed Trent Alexander-Arnold on his comment regarding the significance of trophies to Liverpool compared to Manchester City.
Alexander-Arnold, the Reds’ defender, recently stated that success and silverware hold greater value for Liverpool due to the financial gap between the two clubs.
Manchester City’s recent dominance in football, including last season’s treble win and five out of six Premier League titles, contrasts with Liverpool’s perspective.
Although Alexander-Arnold’s comments seemingly provoked Erling Haaland, who responded with a playful dig at Liverpool’s treble win, Klopp maintains that there is no issue with the defender’s candid expression of his feelings.
Speaking in his press conference, Klopp said: “I had a few people telling me what I should say (laughs). I am not sure how often we have to say in this club how often we respect City.
“Pep is the best manager in the world. I have a good life not being even close to that, incredible players, the best No.9, De Bruyne will go down in history with Steven Gerrard, imagine that conversation!
“Phil Foden, the best English player. Trent understands that but he is a Liverpool fan, he stood on the sides before the pitch.
“Our slogan ‘This Means More’ means it means more to us. Two years ago, we had a parade after losing Champions League night before and the Premier League.
“Tell me a city that would do this where it looks like we won? This club is special to us. So if we feel it, why not say it?
“I am not really interested [in outside opinions]. It’s how he feels. I got told about it. I am pretty sure he showed total respect as well.
“Man City the most successful in years and maybe Europe. Ridiculous record. Means a lot for their people I am sure. Maybe for us it’s because we didn’t win that many.
“It’s not that we win five and then six and the fifth was better. That’s it. You love these interviews when someone says what they think and the whole world [reacts].
“It’s still allowed to think what we want. Nothing wrong with what Trent said in my view.”
Asked how big a role Anfield could have on Sunday’s clash with Man City, Klopp said: “Anfield has from time to time been an influence on a game. Come on!
“The atmosphere our people can create, am I allowed to say it’s second to none or are people offended by that?
“It’s good, massive, energising. These are games you want to play, to watch. Anfield for us is a massive, massive factor. The people will [help us].”
In other Liverpool news, FSG Make Fresh Move to Bring Michael Edwards Back to Liverpool Amid Hunt for New Sporting Director