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via Imago

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Weekend club action returns after an enthralling international break. Among the exciting fixtures is the upcoming Premier League tie between Liverpool and Manchester City. But the spotlight has shifted away from the match after Pep Guardiola made a powerful declaration. The esteemed Spanish manager claims his countless encounters with Jurgen Klopp have propelled him to greatness ‘by far’. 

Both are currently neighbors on the table, as the Reds are trailing behind the Cityzens by just a point, as they lead with 28 points. 

Pep Guardiola admits how Jurgen Klopp helped him grow as a manager

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As both Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp brace themselves to tussle against each other today, the Spanish manager has made a unique claim. During the pre-match press conference, the former coach of Barcelona was questioned, despite the fact that many people still link him with Jose Mourinho, he believes that Klopp is the manager who has pushed him the most during his career. 

Interestingly, he replied, “Yeah, by far, far. It’s because we face a thousand million times each other. By far, yeah.” Guardiola clearly instills the idea that his incredible rise to prominence in the Premier League has been fueled by his rivalry with Klopp. Notably, Guardiola and Mourinho have faced each other countless times during their stints in Spain with Barcelona and Real Madrid, respectively. 

But fast forwarding to today, fans now witness a new duel between a Spaniard and a German veteran in England. Nevertheless, viewers will be able to catch another episode between the two. Speaking of which, the Manchester City tactician admitted his focus is on Liverpool rather than being concerned about Erling Haaland‘s injury.  

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Guardiola isn’t worried about the injured Erling Haaland

The international break proved unlucky for Erling Haaland as he picked up an ankle injury. However, Pep Guardiola underscored that the striker has successfully recovered and is fully fit to feature against Liverpool. He also acknowledged that such injuries are inherent to the sport and won’t be a concern for him unless the Norwegian prodigy showcases his best.

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Additionally, while expressing his desire to clinch three points, he said, “I’ am focusing on Liverpool what they have to do and win the game and if he breaks it is perfect for him for us its good. I am going to prepare the game”. He isn’t alone, as Jurgen Klopp will also be on the lookout to win. All in all, fans are certainly in for a treat. What would your score prediction be? Let us know in the comments below.

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