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Klopp brands Ancelotti his ‘proper challenger’ ahead of Merseyside derby

Carlo Ancelotti of Everton, Jurgen Klopp of Liverpool
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Carlo Ancelotti is one of the most successful and respected managers of the modern era, and Jurgen Klopp is one of his admirers.

Everton are performing beyond expectations this season but it is not much of a surprise considering they are being guided by one of the modern coaching greats, Carlo Ancelotti.

The Italian boss has enjoyed immense success across Europe with AC Milan, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich.

Champions League (x3), Club World Cup (x2), Serie A, Premier League, Ligue 1, and Bundesliga – this is just a glimpse into the Italian tactician’s glittering trophy collection.

His current Everton job might not sound as attractive as the others he has had over the years but he is making a positive impact nevertheless.

The Toffees sit atop the Premier League table with 12 points, three points clear against rivals Liverpool.

Jurgen Klopp cannot help but heap praise on Ancelotti as he prepares to go head to head against him in the Merseyside derby on Saturday.

“Top team, top manager. What I think about Carlo Ancelotti was never a secret,” Klopp told Premier League Productions.

“I couldn’t respect him more as a person and as a coach. He’s a wonderful human being, to be honest. 

“I knew from the first day when I heard that he will sign for Everton, I thought, ‘Ah, the next proper challenger in line.’ I’m really not surprised about the way they [Everton] play.”

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