Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is downplaying the focus on Erling Haaland ahead of their match against Manchester City. While the clash between the two Premier League title contenders brings many subplots, including Klopp’s final head-to-head battle against Pep Guardiola, Klopp believes it would be a mistake to solely focus on Van Dijk shutting down Haaland.
Klopp acknowledges Haaland’s impressive goal-scoring record this season, but he emphasizes that City has too much quality and too many alternate options for Liverpool to solely rely on man-marking Haaland. He states that football doesn’t work like that anymore and that even if Van Dijk nullifies Haaland, City has players like Foden, De Bruyne, Rodri, and Bernardo Silva who can step up and score goals.
Klopp also praises Haaland’s movement and intelligence on the field, noting that he often positions himself in advantageous areas. He believes that Haaland is smart enough not to always be around the player he considers the best one.
Liverpool had planned to have Ibrahima Konate alongside Van Dijk to manage Haaland, but Konate’s injury in Thursday’s Europa League match against Sparta Prague has dented those plans. Klopp does not seem optimistic about Konate’s chances of playing and is prepared to throw rookie Jarell Quansah into the biggest game of his career if needed.
Quansah’s development has been remarkable, progressing faster than anyone expected. A year ago, he was playing against Forest Green during a loan spell at Bristol Rovers. However, injuries in the backline have propelled him up the pecking order, and his response has earned Klopp’s trust. Klopp praises Quansah’s talent, strength, and ability on the ball. He commends his willingness to compete in each training session and expresses joy in having him as part of the team.
In conclusion, Klopp’s downplaying of the focus on Haaland reflects his understanding of the multifaceted nature of football. While Haaland is a significant threat, Klopp recognizes that City has many other quality players who can step up and score goals. He also highlights the unexpected rise of Jarell Quansah, who could potentially play a crucial role in Liverpool’s defense against City. With the title race heating up, this match promises to be an exciting and unpredictable clash between two top teams.