“He’s been crucial to my life” – Bayern Munich star showers praise on Jurgen Klopp ahead of UCL tie

Liverpool play Bayern Munich twice in the Champions League as we enter the knockout rounds. Jurgen Klopp has a history of facing Munich during his Borussia Dortmund days and will be up against a couple of former players.

Roberto Lewandowski and Mats Hummels jumped from the Dortmund train to Munich, and the striker had a lot to say before the meeting with Liverpool.

Lewandowski became one of the most feared strikers in Europe during his time at Dortmund, and he won a Bundesliga title there.

The Pole has scored goals for fun at Bayern, however, he was thankful to Klopp for making him the player he is today.

Lewandowski was speaking to UEFA.com (h/t Liverpool Echo) and added that he learned a lot from the German:

“He’s a coach who has been crucial to my life as a footballer. I have to be thankful to him for where I am in my life right now. He’s just great – as a person and as a coach. We’ve talked so much about football and life, and I’ve learned a lot from him.”

The Pole added that Klopp had given him the belief of being capable enough to play at the highest levels. The clash between the two European giants could be incredible over both legs. Liverpool lead the Premier League while Bayern Munich aren’t doing as well this season.

Read more: “I was never nervous ­before the first title” – Klopp tries to calm Liverpool fans down as title race gains pace

The Bavarians trail Borussia Dortmund by seven points after 20 games. However, Liverpool cannot take the Bundesliga giants lightly and will have to be at their best when the pair meets on 19th February.