Klopp places Guardiola among the greatest managers of all time

Coach Jurgen Klopp recently named the four greatest managers ever, featuring Pep Guardiola, and reflected on unforgettable experiences in the Premier League and Bundesliga.

During his coaching career, Jurgen Klopp is regarded as one of the most legendary tacticians in football history. The German coach, known for his strong yet subtle personality, sincerity, and brilliant football intellect, left a significant mark at Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool. He led Dortmund to two consecutive Bundesliga titles before ending Liverpool’s 30-year Premier League title drought and securing the 2018/19 Champions League trophy.

After departing Liverpool in 2024, Klopp has not managed another club but has taken on the role of Global Football Director at Red Bull. Recently, the German coach shared his thoughts on the four managers he considers the greatest in history.

At the top of his list, Klopp did not hesitate to select Johan Cruyff, one of the greatest coaches who laid the foundation for the “Total Football” philosophy. Klopp personally commented on this choice: “His way of seeing and understanding football is unmatched by anyone.”

The second name Klopp mentioned is his colleague and greatest rival in his career, Pep Guardiola. The two managers faced each other 30 times across Germany and England, with Klopp winning 12 matches and losing 11. Despite fierce competition at the highest level, they maintain mutual respect. Klopp once expressed heartfelt gratitude to Pep, saying: “Facing Guardiola so many times has been an honor for me as a coach. Those were the toughest games, but also the ones I enjoyed most because he is a great inspiration to all of us.”

The third choice on Klopp’s list is Sir Alex Ferguson. Although they never faced off directly on the pitch, Klopp has consistently expressed deep admiration for Sir Alex’s career: “He is the ideal role model for every coach. That is beyond debate.”

The final spot made Klopp hesitate between Carlo Ancelotti, Bill Shankly, and Bob Paisley. Ultimately, he chose Bill Shankly, the legendary Liverpool manager. During his 15 years at Liverpool, Shankly won 10 trophies and laid the groundwork for Bob Paisley’s golden era. Notably, when looking at these four names, Klopp notably excludes himself.