Klopp is trying to calm the title talk
THE result was eyecatching, the performance at times sizzling. Jurgen Klopp knew how it would all be perceived so he felt the moment was right to apply the brakes.
Liverpool had thrashed Napoli 5-0. It was their sixth win in eight pre- season friendlies, during which time they have scored 24 goals. The new signings have bedded in swiftly and their preparations have been smooth compared to the well-documented issues of some rivals.
It would appear, then, that things are only pointing in one direction — Liverpool look primed to launch a proper challenge for the Premier League as the side best equipped to make Manchester City think. Klopp, however, was forthright in how he saw it all.
‘First of all, I really hope our fans are understanding,’ he said. ‘We have shown a lot of good things in the last few years but it was never in one second easy and it will not be easy this season. If we win a game, we win a game. We must win the next as well, not celebrate anything as if it is decided.
‘We have high expectations of ourselves but our situation has not changed. Why should it?’
Good luck with trying to keep expectations in check. Liverpool have strengthened every area they needed to and players such as Naby Keita and goalkeeper Alisson, who made his debut in Dublin, are only going to improve.
If Liverpool aren’t going to be genuine contenders this season, after spending so heavily and securing the futures of key figures such as Mohamed Salah — scorer of the third goal against Napoli — and Roberto Firmino, when are they going to challenge?
Klopp, at least, did recognise Liverpool’s foundations are strong, illustrated by the fact a player of Xherdan Shaqiri’s quality can come off the bench and fit into the team seamlessly. But he doesn’t believe the teams who surround them have too many deficiencies.
‘I do not see that United has got weaker, or City weaker,’ said Klopp. ‘Tottenham have not sold a player and have stayed together. I think Arsenal and Chelsea will be stronger than last year. Everton obviously are pushing from behind. Wolves are not shy to spend money. The league will be difficult.
‘ It is not about judging our situation and thinking: “Really good!”. We need to be ready each week, not only for a few games. That is our challenge.
‘When I speak about not having crazy expectations, if we keep the atmosphere within the club from last year we have a chance of a really big season. I’m really happy with the new players.’