Robert Lewandowski speaks on Jurgen Klopp ahead of Champions League clash versus Liverpool

Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski has spoken fondly about the qualities of Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp ahead of the Champions League meeting between the sides later in the month. The Poland international made a reputation for himself while working under Klopp at Borussia Dortmund and he has acknowledged that the German tactician had a huge impact on shaping his future.

Speaking to UEFA.com, the experienced striker said that he will be eager to meet up with Klopp during their European meeting, although it could be for a short while. He added to thank the German for transforming him into one of the world’s best strikers after making him believe that he can make it at the highest level.
He said: “I'm always happy when I see Jürgen. But we will probably have little time this time. He's a coach who has been crucial to my life as a footballer. I have to be thankful to him for where I am in my life right now. He's just great - as a person and as a coach. We've talked so much about football and life, and I've learned a lot from him. Tactically, there are a few things. But what he has given me above all is the belief that I can play at the highest level.”

“Lewandowski went further to compare Liverpool with Klopp’s former spell with Dortmund and suggested that the two teams“ are quite similar in the way they counterattack from defensive-minded situations. Bayern have witnessed an upheaval in league form over the past few months but they face a testing challenge against Liverpool, who still possess the best defensive record across Europe’s top-five leagues. Still, they can take some confidence “into the Champions League“ round of 16 first leg at Anfield, given the Premier League side have recently struggled to keep clean sheets.