Bayern Munich coach Pep Guardiola has praised Liverpool and welcomed their imminent return to Europe’s elite competition next season.
Speaking ahead of Bayern Munich’s Champions League quarter-final first leg at Old Trafford on Tuesday night, the Spaniard said “They [Liverpool] are [playing] awesome.”
“I’m happy Liverpool are coming back. It’ll be good for the Champions League next season.”
At Pep Guardiola press conference: "I'm glad Liverpool are coming back and will be in the Champions League next season" (among other things)
— Chris Bascombe (@_ChrisBascombe) March 31, 2014
Guardiola has previously shown his affection for Liverpool, sporting a Don’t Buy The Sun sticker at the Ryder Cup in 2012.
He also reportedly praised Liverpool’s academy in 2011, saying “The academy of the Liverpool is the only one that can compare to La Masia of Barcelona FC.”
The former Barcelona boss played at Anfield in the UEFA Cup semi-final in 2001, which Liverpool won courtesy of Gary McAllister’s penalty. He is yet to face the Reds as an opposing manager.
Guardiola recently led Bayern to the Bundesliga title — the earliest the German top flight league has been decided.
With six games of their season to go, Bayern are 22 points clear of second place Borussia Dortmund, despite being held to a thrilling 3-3 draw by mid-table Hoffenheim on Saturday.
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