Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said he was not consulted by the club’s owners on signing up to a European Super League (ESL) and criticised plans for the competition’s proposed format.
The Reds are one of 12 clubs to agree to a breakaway ESL that has sparked a furious reaction from governments, governing bodies, players and fans.
Under the proposals, 15 founder members would compete in the 20-team tournament every year without having to qualify.
Liverpool are in danger of failing to qualify for next season’s Champions League as prior to Monday night’s clash with Leeds, they sit sixth in the Premier League, behind Leicester and West Ham, two clubs excluded from the plans.
“One thing I understand and that people think is not right is the competitiveness, I get that,” Klopp told Sky Sports.”I like the fact that West Ham might play Champions League next year. I don’t want them to, because I want us to be there, but I like that they have the chance.”
I like the fact that West Ham might play Champions League
Klopp was previously quoted as saying “I hope this Super League will never happen” and questioning whether fans’ interest would be maintained by watching Liverpool face the likes of Real Madrid every year.
In 2019, the German said: “For me, the Champions League is the Super League, in which you do not always end up playing against the same teams.
“Why should we create a system where Liverpool faces Real Madrid for 10 straight years? Who wants to see that every year?”
Klopp admitted his preparation for Monday’s game had been disturbed by the news breaking late on Sunday.
“My opinion didn’t change,” he said when asked about his previous comments on a Super League.
