Ahead of Arsenal’s trip to Anfield to face Liverpool, Mikel Arteta has spoken about his admiration for Jurgen Klopp, calling him an inspiration. The match, which takes place on Easter Sunday, could prove to be decisive in the Premier League title race. Arsenal currently sit eight points clear of Manchester City at the top of the table, but know that failure to beat Klopp’s side may see their lead cut with the Citizens facing Southampton on Saturday.
Liverpool haven’t lost at home against Arsenal in the top-flight since September 2012, but there is belief from the visiting fans that they can finally end their decade-long hoodoo. The north Londoners started promisingly last season at Anfield, only for Arteta to ignite the home faithful following a touchline scuffle with Klopp, with Liverpool ultimately easing to a 4-0 win.
Arteta told the German to ‘f*** off’ after being left furious by a Sadio Mane foul on Takehiro Tomiyasu, with Klopp taking exception to his appeals. Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Arteta was asked about the incident, to which he said: “That’s football. It happens in football and after that we hugged each other and moved on. The last time we were together nothing happened. I have full respect and admiration for what they’ve done. Him and the coaching staff at Liverpool, and we’ve moved on.”
Pressed on whether he would approach the situation differently this time, Arteta remarked: “I don’t know. I would have to be in the situation again. I reacted that day to defend our players in the best possible way, and that’s it. But I don’t like seeing myself like this so hopefully not.”
Arteta then spoke about Klopp’s success with Liverpool, stating: “For sure, coming from abroad, the way he did it, the way he installed that clear identity, values and the way he transmitted and everybody bought his ideas so early. He needed some time and then results came up in the best possible way. So yeah, for sure.”
Klopp has been a huge success at Liverpool, leading them to their first Premier League title in 30 years in the 2019/20 season. He has also won the Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup during his time at the club. His high-energy, pressing style of play has become synonymous with Liverpool’s success, and Arteta will be hoping to learn from him as he continues to develop Arsenal’s own style of play.
Arsenal have made significant progress under Arteta, with the Spaniard leading them to FA Cup success in his first season in charge. They have also made a strong start to this season, with their defence looking particularly solid. However, they face a tough challenge against Liverpool, who have been one of the most dominant teams in English football over the past few years.
The match promises to be an exciting one, with both teams possessing plenty of attacking talent. Liverpool will be looking to bounce back from their recent poor form, while Arsenal will be hoping to extend their lead at the top of the table. Whatever happens, it is clear that Arteta has huge respect for Klopp and will be looking to learn from him as he continues to develop as a manager.