Jurgen Klopp believes the challenge for Liverpool has never been greater, with Newcastle joining the ranks of the big spenders in the Premier League.
But while the Reds boss believes Sunday’s opponents are here to stay as a major force in English football alongside such financial heavyweights as City, United and Chelsea, he says there’s nothing to be gained from whining about it.
Instead, he believes the Anfield club must simply up their game both on and off the pitch, with nothing less than perfection required to be able to continue to compete at the summit of the game.
Asked about the spending power of Newcastle, which has seen the north east club splash close to £400m since the Saudi takeover, backed by the country’s Public Investment Fund, he pointed out that Chelsea have spent more than twice that amount in the same period.
So it’s them (Newcastle and Manchester City ) and Chelsea! And Manchester United in the future, while yeah, we have to live within our means,” he explained.
“As far as I know, it was always the situation for Liverpool. That of course makes it not easier. But we cannot put sticks around our area and hope that no one will run through! “That’s how it is, other teams will do their things, we will do our stuff
“And I have no problem with that, as long as it is all by the rules. In the end the circumstances might be different, but it’s all about what you make of it. That’s what we try, that’s where we try to make a difference in a positive direction, but we will see.”
Klopp does admit it brings added pressure, particularly in signing players, where even one mistake could blow not only Liverpool’s budget, but a huge hole in their team.
“It is simple,” he said bluntly. “We have to be on point, that is pretty much the thing. There is not a lot of space for failure.”
That is why the Reds have been so careful in the current transfer window, even in the face of some intense pressure from irate supporters who see the rest of the big hitters outspending Liverpool.
Klopp though, remains calm and is not about to moan about it…even if he admits he will be REALLY glad to see the back of the transfer window.
“The people out there think: We should do this, we should do that! Another centre half and another No 6 and another No 8 and another striker!…‘he’ll sit there ladies and gentlemen!’” he said.
“I was always glad when transfer windows are over! I am absolutely in it, if I want to improve the squad I have to absolutely do it. But I have all the information around and I know what is possible and not possible.
