Jurgen Klopp has praised Sadio Mane’s recent form for Liverpool ahead of their game with Manchester United tonight.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference via BeanymanSports on YouTube, the Liverpool boss labelled the 30-year-old as being ‘absolutely incredible.
“About the quality of Sadio we don’t have to talk, because that is absolutely incredible – the quality he has,” said Klopp.
“What has happened the last two months for him was a boost, that’s clear. I’m really happy for him.”
It has certainly been a good patch of form for Mane. To hear his manager’s positive words should hopefully give him the motivation to turn in another match-winning performance tonight.
Mane joins the party
Liverpool’s season so far has had many star performers. From Mohamed Salah’s unbelievable early season form, to Virgil Van Dijk’s stunning return to his throne, Klopp has had a glut of players operating at the top level in 2021/22.
Up until recently, it would have been a stretch to include Mane high up on the list of The Reds’ most influential players of the season.
But winning the AFCON title in February proved to be a turning point for Sadio. Since returning with a winner’s medal around his neck, the Senegalese legend has made his mark on what could yet be an historic campaign for Liverpool.
Big goals from a big player
Mane has eight goals in the 15 games he has played for Klopp since tasting victory with his country.
They’ve been big goals too. His two strikes in Saturday’s FA Cup semi-final win were crucial to Liverpool maintaining their quadruple hunt.
Before that, his equaliser at the Etihad stadium the week before was vital in steadying the ship early in the second half. How important that goal could be when the final tally’s are in on May 22nd.
Mane also got the only goal of the game in a 1-0 win over West Ham United and his equaliser at home to Norwich set The Reds back on the right path after going behind in the second half at Anfield.
Early shouts for Mane to win this year’s Ballon d’Or may be slightly premature. However, if Liverpool’s number 10 can add a few more big goals to his collection between now and the end of the season, anything is possible.
In the mean time it’s just brilliant to have Mane back and looking like his old self. It has been a difficult couple of years all in all for him in a Liverpool shirt, but when he’s in this kind of form, he’s one of the best players in the world.
Receive a digest of our best Liverpool content each week direct to your mailbox
