Pablo Zabaleta told beIN SPORTS (08/11/20 at 6:55 pm) that Jurgen Klopp was ‘very brave’ to start with Liverpool duo Diogo Jota and Roberto Firmino during their 1-1 draw at Manchester City on Sunday.
The former Manchester City right-back admitted that he found the move ‘really interesting’, as Klopp opted for a very attack-minded team at the Etihad.
Before the game, debates were raging as to whether Klopp should start Champions League hat-trick hero Jota or push towards the out-of-form, but reliable Firmino.
In the end, he surprised many by starting both, as Zabaleta shared his thoughts on that decision and the game in itself.
“Both teams playing with such high intensity during the whole game and both teams went for the three points from the first minute,” said Zabaleta.
“It was really interesting to see Jota and Firmino both at the same time. I thought that was very brave from Klopp. I think Manchester City missed that chance to get the three points and reduce that gap with some of the teams who are on top of the table now.
“At the end, Liverpool is happy with a point away from home, it’s important to get at least a point and not to lose, but overall I think it was a great game to watch.”
Firmino wasn’t at his best against Man City and it will be interesting if Klopp now starts with his summer signing from here on in.
Goalscoring aside, what Firmino does better than most is picking those pockets, linking up with the likes of Mo Salah and Sadio, finding space for teammates and always keeping opponents guessing with his intelligent movement.
But all of that, and his silky first touch, is missing from his game and it’s clear he needs to either rediscover his form by staying in the starting XI or coming off from the bench and changing the game.
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