da dobrowin： This article is part of Football FanCast’s Pundit View series, which provides opinion and analysis on recent quotes from journalists, pundits, players and managers…
da jogodeouro： Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone was quick to single out Jurgen Klopp when asked what other managers he respects, and it could be because there is some similarity between the two.
What did he say?
Simeone has had great success since taking over Atletico, guiding them to the La Liga title in 2014 and Champions League finals in 2014 and 2016, building up a club to compete with powerhouses Barcelona and Real Madrid.
In that sense, Klopp has achieved similar in his position, and for that Simeone has commended his efforts, but is also impressed by his man-management style and his close relationship with his players.
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In an interview with El Larguero, translated by Empire of the Kop, in response to a question about which managers he respects, Simeone said:
“A manager that I respect? Jürgen Klopp without a doubt. He had to lose things, as well as winning some beautiful things, but he’s always done it with one style. I see him really close to his players.”
There is a lot he admires, therefore, not just his winning habit and impressive trophy wins, but overcoming adversity by staying true to his philosophy.
Similar mentality
The former Argentina international knows all about hardship, too, having lost twice in the Champions League final – both times to Real Madrid – and it is possible he sees some of his own traits and experiences in the German.
Like Klopp, he has built a strong team spirit and gets on well with his players – he wouldn’t be in his ninth year as Atletico manager without that. A recent clip of their Champions League clash against Lokomotiv Moscow shows how hard they are willing to work for their manager and the desire each of his players is willing to put in, and that is only present because of his influence.
Liverpool currently show similar levels of commitment, and it is clear to see they love playing for the club and for Klopp, with post-match embraces a frequent theme of his tenure at Anfield.
Though the pair think differently about the game tactically, with Simeone basing his success on defensive organisation, and Klopp a high-intensity style, they understand the key components of the game.
They each know how essential it is for their players to cover the basics of the game, to work hard and constantly try to improve, and that is why both of their clubs have progressed so much since they took over.