In a sharp message directed at Chelsea, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp couldn’t resist taking a swipe at the Blues’ transfer dealings, especially in light of the contrasting fortunes of both teams in the Premier League this season.
Liverpool, having engaged in a summer battle with Chelsea for the signings of Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia, finds themselves atop the league table after a slow start, while Chelsea languishes in 12th place after 16 matches despite getting the players on their side at the end of the window.
Speaking at a trial event for Anfield’s new stadium expansion, Klopp openly discussed the success of Liverpool’s season and seemed to allude to Chelsea’s struggles: “The summer we had, a few strange things happened in the transfer market, but here, between us, I can say ‘my God, were we lucky!'”
The transfer saga involving Moises Caicedo saw Chelsea eventually securing a league record deal for the midfielder, despite Liverpool leading the race at one stage. Klopp had confirmed an agreement between Liverpool and Brighton before a last-minute change saw Caicedo opt for Stamford Bridge.
Reflecting on the situation, Klopp took a subtle dig at Chelsea’s spending and managerial demands: “That’s what each Chelsea manager wants and usually they get it. These specific players, you can see in the moment the market is obviously crazy.”
Despite Chelsea signing both Caicedo and Lavia, Klopp expressed relief that Liverpool’s alternative choices, including former Bundesliga man Wataru Endo and loanee Ryan Gravenberch, have contributed to their successful campaign.
Meanwhile, Liverpool are gearing up for their last group match of the 2023/24 UEFA Europa League against Royale Union SG on Thursday.