Pep Guardiola Predicts the Future for 'Best Rival' Jurgen Klopp
Pep Guardiola jokes about sleeping better once Jurgen Klopp leaves Liverpool and predicts his return to management.
Guardiola's Thoughts on Klopp's Departure
Jurgen Klopp made a surprising announcement that he will be leaving Liverpool at the end of the season after nine years in charge. Pep Guardiola, who has had a long-standing rivalry with Klopp, responded by joking that he will sleep better once Klopp departs from Anfield. He also expressed his admiration for Klopp and called him the 'best rival' he has had in his career.
Guardiola explained, 'Before playing against Liverpool was always a nightmare. Of course, he will be missed. It was a shock to everyone. As Manchester City, we will lose something, as we cannot define our period without him and without Liverpool.' Guardiola also acknowledged the impact that Klopp has had on the Premier League, stating that the league will miss his charisma and personality.
The Enduring Rivalry
Guardiola and Klopp's rivalry extends beyond their time in the Premier League. They previously faced each other in Germany when Guardiola managed Bayern Munich and Klopp was in charge of Borussia Dortmund. In total, they have faced each other 29 times, making them the managers who have met most frequently.
In the Premier League, their clubs have faced each other on 15 occasions, with City winning five matches, Liverpool winning four, and the rest ending in draws. Guardiola once described their rivalry as 'beautiful.'
Klopp's Future and Guardiola's Prediction
Klopp plans to take a year off after leaving Liverpool and then assess how he feels. However, he has ruled out a return to management in England. Guardiola, on the other hand, is confident that Klopp will return to the dugout at some point.
Guardiola said, 'He will not admit it but he will be back. I know it. Maybe in 10 years' time when he's recharged his energy. I'm saying this personality will be back. With a national team, I don't know.' Guardiola draws from his own experience, having taken a year-long sabbatical before returning to coaching at Bayern Munich. He believes football needs personalities like Klopp and is hopeful that they will have the opportunity to spend time together in the future.
