Jürgen Klopp Addresses the Media Following Liverpool's 3-0 Victory Over Manchester United
Liverpool's manager, Jürgen Klopp, attended the post-match press conference following their 3-0 triumph over Manchester United. When asked whether he felt the match could have ended with an even larger scoreline, Klopp responded:
"No, I don't know. As a manager, you see everything you want to see in a game like this. We had our difficult moments – I think Manchester United started well, and we conceded a couple of corners during that phase.
But we worked through those moments, and then we had the goal that was disallowed, but we didn't get discouraged. We just kept going. Goals came freely, and we could have scored more. Alisson made two crucial saves in the second half. Everything went smoothly, and perhaps most importantly, the efficiency of our players' movement off the ball was incredible. That made today a very positive day."
When discussing Liverpool's start to the season, Klopp was asked what he was most proud of:
"I usually avoid using the word 'proud,' but I believe we've done well in these three matches, particularly in our defensive organization. So, while it's true that Liverpool has a top-class goalkeeper in Alisson, my players are doing everything to ensure he doesn't have to make saves and to keep clean sheets.
What impressed me most today was our ball-carrying, because I knew what we could do off the ball, but I think we carried the ball exceptionally well today.
Is this your biggest win since taking charge at Liverpool?
Being part of this game was special, but only because we won. That's what makes it special, and that's exactly what we did. So, we won, and I'm really happy about that, but maybe even more so about the performance and the way we played today."
Do you think Liverpool's midfield was able to control the game against Manchester United?
When we have the ball, yes, we want to find a midfielder every time. But I agree with your point; Liverpool's midfield trio performed well, but they also needed the center-backs to drop into midfield to create a third passing option.
They need the center-backs to step up when the midfielders can't receive the ball, and Konaté and Van Dijk did that. Van Dijk stepping into midfield defensively as well. As I said, it was a team performance, and you know me – it's always about the team, and then individuals can shine.
I think all eleven players and the substitutes did well, but it's not a coincidence because the team is working well together.
How do you feel about Gravenberch playing in the number six role?
We're Dutch compatriots, so I know how good he is on the ball. That's what I expected from him and what he brings to this position.
He's a very important player in our system, but what impressed me most when I started working with him was his running capacity and his physical presence in midfield.
Again, we've played three games – just one week from Saturday to Sunday or Sunday to Sunday. If we want to perform well in the Champions League, we have a lot to prove.
I don't want to rain on the parade, but it's been two years since we last qualified for the Champions League, and we all know how that season ended. We have a lot to prove, and if we can produce tough performances in the Champions League and maintain our form on weekends.
After three consecutive clean sheets, what do you think has been the key to Liverpool's defense?
I don't think it's a huge difference. Liverpool's high press is ferocious, as I mentioned. We've played three games, and the previous two against Ipswich and Brentford were tough opponents, but let me clarify – I previously thought neither would finish in the top nine in the Premier League this season.
Today, we played a very strong game against Manchester United, so keeping a clean sheet was impressive, but Manchester United are still excellent, and we still needed Alisson to make saves, even if only twice."
Klopp's comments reflect a blend of satisfaction and pragmatism, acknowledging the team's achievements while emphasizing the need for continued hard work and unity. As Liverpool moves forward, the focus will be on maintaining their strong start and building on the momentum generated by their convincing victory over Manchester United.