Jurgen Klopp enjoys watching Roberto De Zerbi’s Brighton side, but admits he would not want to emulate his style of play since it contradicts his nature.
Liverpool play the Seagulls on Sunday, hoping to reclaim the Premier League lead before Manchester City face Arsenal later that afternoon.
Klopp has recently battled against De Zerbi, with Brighton winning two and drawing two of their last four games with Liverpool.
The German anticipates another difficult afternoon on Sunday, impressed with the Italian’s performance at the Amex, but admits that is not how he would like to lead a club.
‘We understand how difficult it is against Brighton,’ Klopp remarked. ‘Roberto is doing an amazing job there.
‘Roberto is doing an amazing job there. We have improved in the 18-20 months since his arrival (in England).
The first game was shocking because we were their first opponent after he joined the club. We had no idea what to anticipate.
‘It was impressive how quickly he had the squad in his path. Since then, it has only improved.
A truly stunning and unique manner of playing football. It’s about possession; they want it, and so do we, but we need more.
That is the greatest strategy to defend against them.
‘When they have the ball, you must be prepared to suffer. It will be very intriguing, and I’m looking forward to it.’
When asked why De Zerbi‘s team is so difficult to beat, Klopp responded: “The way they play.”
It’s a really different approach. I couldn’t coach that. It is against my personality! But it’s a good watch, and the players must maintain precise placement.
‘Hold your place, maintain your position, and pass at the perfect time.
He’s a quality coach who is performing exceptionally well, which is very interesting to watch.
That makes it difficult. It’s just a different approach. Possession-based, but even more structured from a positional standpoint than Manchester City or whoever, which have a little more freedom.
‘On their day, Brighton can beat any team. But good news: we can do it as well.
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