Sadio Mane: Every footballer would love to play under Jurgen Klopp

Liverpool forward Sadio Mane has expressed his joy at playing under Jurgen Klopp, calling him one of the “best” coaches in modern football.

The Senegalese forward is part of a lethal front-three attack alongside Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah – a force curated by the German manager.

The trio have scored a combined total of 45 goals this season in the Premier League, as well as a further 19 in the Champions League.

They have orchestrated one of the most deadly attacking formations in European football, and Klopp has made Liverpool a joy to watch.

Mane, who signed for Liverpool in 2016 from Southampton, hailed the influence of his manager – quoting his enthusiasm, affable nature and exuberance as huge motivators for his side.

“Every player here loves Jurgen Klopp. He’s always positive, passes on a lot of his power,” he told Sport Bild, as reported by ESPN.

“He’s a very special coach. I think he’s one of the best. Every footballer would love to train under him.”

Klopp is indeed an animated character, shooting up and down the touchline in celebration – and his sheer charisma seems to be equally infectious in the dressing room.

The German has already been credited by new Liverpool arrivals as the reason why they picked a move to Anfield. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Naby Keita and Virgil van Dijk all stated that Klopp was a major factor in their decision to join the Reds.

The Reds boss is known for his style of high-pressing and exploitation on the counter-attack, with his fast-paced football guiding Liverpool to a potential top-four finish as well as the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

“Our secret is the same as always in football,” Mane added. “Everyone working together is the key. Our midfield, our defenders and our ‘keeper make it easy for us to play this special attacking game.

“And Jurgen Klopp’s system adds to this. The Klopp system is a household name, not only in Germany but in all of Europe.”

“We have many elements of that game at Liverpool. It’s a very intense game, permanently attacking. It’s demanding for the opponent, but also for us. It’s pure power.

“You can see the result this year. We score many, many goals. That’s what Klopp expects from us.”

Liverpool will next face Watford at Anfield on Saturday in the Premier League.

ARIS