Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has issued a warning to Bayern Munich ahead of their Champions League clash at Anfield next week, highlighting the formidable atmosphere they should expect to face.
The German champions travel to face Liverpool next Wednesday, but Gundogan, who played for Reds’ boss Jurgen Klopp at Borussia Dortmund, admitted that Anfield can be a difficult place to visit as a player.
Speaking to German outlet Bild, he said: “I know how hard it is to play in Liverpool so I honestly see Liverpool a bit ahead of Bayern.
“You can kindle a fire at Anfield, develop a momentum that is second to none. In 15 minutes, you can concede three goals.”
He added: “If Bayern survive in Liverpool, they will be able to beat any opponent at home.”
OPINION
Gundogan’s frankness is refreshing, but needless to say that Pep Guradiola won’t be too pleased about one of his star players going around talking up his nearest title rivals. It’s testament to the undeniable atmosphere at Anfield that he felt the need to mention it, and there is undoubtedly a special little kick on top of the usual buzz for big European nights under the floodlights. Bayern aren’t the team that they were last year, and have struggled at times this season, but will still pose a stern test for Jurgen Klopp’s side. There is a strong argument to be made that getting knocked out of the Champions League would actually be beneficial for the Reds’ title hopes, but any kind of tactical scheming in that regard will go out of the window as soon as those players step out onto the pitch. The fact of the matter is that Liverpool will be looking to win both Champions League and domestic glory, and their fans will make it as hard as possible for the visitors next week.
