Klopp hails Haaland: Best striker in the world

Klopp hails Haaland: Best striker in the world

Erling Haaland is a “perfect fit” for Manchester City and Liverpool will have to find ways to limit his threat in attack in Sunday’s Premier League game at Anfield, manager Jurgen Klopp said on Friday.

Haaland has made a sensational start at City, scoring 20 goals in 13 matches in all competitions for the Premier League champions since joining them from Borussia Dortmund in the summer.

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“When you play against somebody at the moment who is the best striker in the world you have to make sure he doesn’t get that many balls,” Klopp told a news conference.

“That’s what we will try but obviously against City the problem is if you close Haaland down with too many players you open up gaps for all the other world-class players.

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“So that will not make life easier, it’s a challenge, it’s a football problem and we will try to find a solution.”

Klopp heaped praise on Haaland, saying the Norway international boasts a enviable combination of physical and technical skills.

“His finishing skills are exceptional but he moves really smart,” Klopp said. “You can only use speed if you use it in a smart way. His whole package makes it special.

“So many things to make a striker, and at City he has some of the best players around him setting up goals. It’s a perfect fit.”