Klopp states that Simeone won’t be happy about Liverpool clash

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has stated that Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone won’t be pleased about facing the Reds in the last 16 of the Champions League.

The Reds finished on top of Group E, which saw the Anfield club drawn against Atletico Madrid, who finished second in Group D.

Liverpool will travel to Estadio Metropolitano on Tuesday February 18, before a return meeting at Anfield on Wednesday March 11.

Many people believe this will be a difficult clash for Klopp’s side, but the German is adamant that the Spanish giants are the team that are more concerned.

“It’s an interesting draw,” Klopp told his club’s official website. “Before the draw, I actually thought it would be Madrid – either one of the two clubs – and that’s the way it is.

“Madrid is the place where we only have fantastic memories [2019 Champions League final], all of us, so that’s great, but this time we play Atletico there and it’s their home ground.

“It’s a tough one, but if you go through all of the draws, there are pretty much four or five potential finals already in the last 16.

“So, really, really good; a good draw, a difficult game like it should be, but I don’t think Mr Simeone is running through his living room and is happy that he got Liverpool.

“It will be a tough game. Two teams who are used to playing intense football. Different styles and slightly different organisation, of course, but both are ready for intensity and that makes it pretty tough for both.”

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SALZBURG, AUSTRIA – DECEMBER 10: Jurgen Klopp, Manager of Liverpool and Sadio Mane of Liverpool embrace during the UEFA Champions League group E match between RB Salzburg and Liverpool FC at Red Bull Arena on December 10, 2019 in Salzburg, Austria. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

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Klopp does raise a fair point. Liverpool are yet to lose a two-legged European knockout tie under the German, which highlights how strong the Reds have been in Europe under his guidance.

Liverpool are the reigning champions of Europe for a reason. Atletico Madrid have historically defended well under Simeone, but the Anfield factor will be too much for the Spanish giants to handle.

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Source: anfieldhq.com