We doubt Liverpool fans will appreciate any constructive criticism of their team from Alex Ferguson.
The former Manchester United manager analysed the 2016 Europa League final as part of Uefa’s team of technical experts, and his views on Jurgen Klopp’s tactics for the game have been published in a technical report.
Liverpool got off to a great start in the game, and went into half-time leading 1-0 thanks a brilliant Daniel Sturridge goal.
Simon Mignolet reveals exactly what Jurgen Klopp told the Liverpool players after Europa League final defeat https://t.co/Fe6TEROyq9
— SportsJOE (@SportsJOEdotie) May 19, 2016
However, Sevilla blitzed their opponents in the second-half, and retained their title thanks to a goal from Kevin Gameiro and a brace from right-back Coke.
Liverpool dominated the first-half of the game, pinning their opponents back and looked in complete control of the game until an error by left-back Alberto Moreno allowed Sevilla back into the game early in the second period.
Ferguson argues in the report that, rather than individual errors, Liverpool lost the game because they simply ran out of steam due to the high-pressing tactics deployed by Klopp throughout the season.
“In the second half Liverpool had no energy, they could not get to the ball,” Ferguson said.
“The space in midfield became bigger. I never had a team who could press a ball all season.”
However, despite that criticism, Ferguson has been complimentary of the Liverpool manager in the past, and said that he was worried about the potential positive effect the German could have on the club.
“He’s going to make a difference at that club with his personality, drive and knowledge. Things are looking up there. I’m worried about him because the one thing United don’t want is Liverpool to get above us.”
The GAA Hour took their show on the road to Castlebar to preview the All-Ireland final with Colm Parkinson, James Horan and some very special guests. Listen below or subscribe here on iTunes.
