Jurgen Klopp’s legacy looms large over RB Leipzig as they prepare to host Liverpool in the Champions League on Wednesday. Klopp, who stepped down as Liverpool manager in the summer, is now the head of football operations for Red Bull, which oversees Leipzig.
While Klopp will not be present at the Red Bull Arena, his influence is undeniable. Leipzig’s fixture list has thrown up a strange quirk, with the German club facing each of Klopp’s former clubs in the five games following his appointment.
Leipzig’s 2-0 win at Mainz on Saturday was overshadowed by Klopp’s presence. Fans held banners protesting his appointment, while reporters asked Leipzig coach Marco Rose if he had sought Klopp’s advice on how to beat Liverpool.
Rose dismissed the notion, saying Klopp was “in Mallorca, looking after his dog, his wife, and his children.” He added, “I will do everything (to beat Liverpool) but I won’t call Klopp. He needs his peace and quiet and needs to rest a bit.”
Leipzig, under Rose’s guidance, have emerged as a force to be reckoned with. They won the German Cup last season and reached the Champions League last 16. This season, they have held onto their young talent and are challenging for the Bundesliga title.
However, Leipzig’s Champions League campaign has been disappointing so far. They have lost both of their opening games and are in desperate need of a result against Liverpool.
Liverpool, under Klopp’s replacement Arne Slot, have been in impressive form in the Premier League. They have conceded just three goals in eight games, the best defensive record in the league.
Leipzig goalkeeper Peter Gulasci acknowledged the similarities between the two teams. “Liverpool are extremely stable and don’t allow much at the back — just like us,” he said. “That’s why it won’t be easy.”
Wednesday’s clash promises to be a fascinating encounter between two teams with strong defensive records and a shared history with Jurgen Klopp.
