Klopp’s Last Away Match: Liverpool vs. Aston Villa
Liverpool is set to face Aston Villa in Jurgen Klopp’s final away match as manager. While the Reds’ recent poor results have dashed their Premier League title hopes, it is crucial for Klopp to end his tenure on a high note. Villa, on the other hand, has had an impressive season and is likely to secure Champions League qualification. Let’s delve into the key points ahead of this match.
1. Klopp’s Farewell Tour
After nearly nine successful years at Liverpool, Klopp leads his team away from home for the last time. Throughout his tenure, he has orchestrated several remarkable victories on the road. Fans heading to Villa Park can expect a lively atmosphere as they bid farewell to the charismatic German manager. Following their 4-2 win over Tottenham last weekend, another victory would signify a turning point for the team.
2. Villa’s Remarkable Season
Villa, initially expected to secure Europa League football, has exceeded expectations this season. Under the management of Unai Emery, who is a nominee for Manager of the Season, they are all but guaranteed a fourth-place finish. Emery has built a formidable team from the defense to the attack, with goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez and striker Ollie Watkins being key players. Liverpool will face a tough challenge against this impressive Villa side.
3. Liverpool’s Injury Concerns
Liverpool may be without Andy Robertson and Diogo Jota for this match, as they were absent from training on Friday. Jota, who hasn’t played since scoring against Fulham last month, is unlikely to feature. Additionally, Joel Matip, Thiago, Bobby Clark, and Ben Doak are all ruled out for the remainder of the season. These absences will test Liverpool’s squad depth.
4. Expected Liverpool Lineup
Klopp is likely to field a similar starting lineup to the one that defeated Tottenham. If Robertson is fit, we might see an unchanged XI for only the second time this season. Jarell Quansah could retain his place ahead of Ibrahima Konate, while Harvey Elliott, who has impressed this season, might also start. The attacking unit is expected to consist of Mohamed Salah, Luis Diaz, and Cody Gakpo, with Darwin Nunez eager to prove himself.
5. Villa’s Probable Formation
Villa has been busy with European commitments, which may have taken a toll on their players’ fitness. However, Emery is unlikely to make many changes to his lineup. Matty Cash and Lucas Digne could operate as wing-backs, with Douglas Luiz anchoring the midfield and Watkins leading the line. Despite several injuries, Villa has performed admirably this season.
6. Klopp’s Vow to Avoid Suspension
In his pre-match press conference, Klopp expressed his determination to avoid receiving a yellow card that would result in a ban for the next game against Wolves. Highlighting his relatively low number of yellow cards compared to some of his colleagues, Klopp emphasized his desire to stay calm and not get involved in unnecessary discussions with officials.
7. Liverpool’s History at Villa Park
Liverpool has enjoyed numerous successes at Villa Park over the years. Memorable moments include Sadio Mane’s last-minute winner in the 2019/20 title-winning season and Steven Gerrard’s iconic late free-kick in the 2007/08 campaign. The Reds’ last defeat at Villa Park was in May 2011, when Stewart Downing scored the winning goal just before joining Liverpool. Overall, Liverpool has won 16, drawn five, and lost seven away games against Villa in the Premier League era.
8. Unfavorable Record Against Klopp
Emery has faced Klopp’s Liverpool on ten occasions as a manager. Although his Sevilla side secured a 3-1 victory in the 2016 Europa League final, Emery has not won against Liverpool since then. In nine subsequent meetings, he has drawn twice and lost seven times. His teams have conceded 26 goals and have never managed to keep a clean sheet against the Reds.
9. Referee Controversy
Simon Hooper has been appointed as the referee for this match, which may not please Klopp. Hooper was in charge during the controversial decision to disallow Diaz’s goal against Spurs earlier this season. Klopp has been critical of Hooper in the past. This will be Hooper’s fifth Liverpool game of the season, with one of the previous matches being the Reds’ 3-0 victory over Villa in September.
10. How to Follow the Match
The match will be televised on Sky Sports Main Event, with coverage starting at 6.30pm (BST). For live updates and analysis, you can follow the TIA live blog from 7.15pm, expertly managed by Henry Jackson. Let’s hope for an enjoyable evening and a successful farewell for Klopp. Come on, you Reds!