Jurgen Klopp: My Germany Return 'Cool,' But Liverpool-Augsburg Matters More

Being back in Germany does not add any extra meaning to Liverpool’s UEFA Europa League clash with Augsburg for Jurgen Klopp, whose knowledge of the Reds’ next opponents ensures his only focus is the game itself.

The Reds flew out to the manager’s homeland on Wednesday afternoon and trained at the WWK Arena in the evening, ahead of the first leg of their Round of 32 tie against the Bundesliga side.

Klopp also spoke to local media at a packed press conference inside the stadium, with much of the pregame discussion surrounding his return to the country four months on from his appointment at Anfield.

While the boss admits the chance to lead his new team out in Germany is “cool,” it will be business as usual once the game gets underway — with Augsburg ready to offer a display worthy of the occasion.

“There aren’t too many German managers in foreign countries,” Klopp told Liverpoolfc.com. “Most German managers work in Germany or as national coaches of African countries. So maybe coming back is just something special for the German press or some supporters.

“For me, it’s the Europa League, and you always have to play in different countries. In this case, it’s Germany. The biggest advantage I have is that in the hotel I will understand each person — so that’s cool!

“But the rest is football. I didn’t leave Germany long enough ago to say I need German air or something like this! I really enjoy England and we feel really good, it’s a great country to live and work in.

“Coming back is cool but it’s not the most important thing in this game. Much more important is that we go there and are ready for a difficult game.”