Klopp: ‘I don’t want Ronaldo, I want these guys’

Matt Stead

Jurgen Klopp has praised the standard of the existing squad at Liverpool, and hopes to transform the Reds into “the hardest team to beat in the world”.

Klopp delivered the first part of his first interview as Liverpool manager early Friday morning, and wasted little time in delivering yet more soundbites to the baying public to LFC.TV.

One of Klopp’s first tasks will be to assess the current Liverpool squad, and the German feels that the standard is already high among the Anfield crop.

“I’m here because I believe the potential of the team. I see the team and think everything is good,” Klopp said.

“At this moment we’re not the best team in the world, but who cares? We want to be the best team in the world. We have some problems and we have to solve them.

“We have speed and technical ability. The first game is Tottenham and we have to make a team for this game. I’m not a dream man, I don’t want to have Cristiano [Ronaldo] or Lionel [Messi] and all these players in one team. I want these guys.

“You have to have a stable defence. That is the first thing, always.

“Our position is okay so we can start our development. If it’s possible let’s try to be the hardest team to beat in the world.

“Expectations can be a really big problem, it’s like a backpack with 20 kilos more.

“Now we start work.”

Klopp discussed the role and his relationship with the fans further on Liverpool’s official website:

“Firstly, I would like to offer thanks to the ownership of Liverpool Football Club for showing faith in me and my staff and presenting us with this wonderful opportunity. They have presented to me a very clear vision and I share their ambitions and model of work.

“I am very excited by the challenge we face and eager to start the job and begin implementing our ideas and ways of working with this team. This is a talented group of players and there is still much to compete for this season.

“Winning is important but so is how you win and how you play the game. I believe in a playing philosophy that is very emotional, very fast and very strong. My teams must play at full throttle and take it to the limit every single game.

“It is important to have a playing philosophy that reflects your own mentality, reflects the club and gives you a clear direction to follow. Tactical of course, but tactical with a big heart.

“Liverpool has extraordinary supporters and Anfield is a world renowned home, with an incredible atmosphere. I want to build a great relationship with these supporters and give them memories to cherish. I hope we can feed off each other’s energy and that we take this journey together.”