Jurgen Klopp says his Borussia Dortmund side is influenced by legendary Italian tactician Arrigo Sacchi.
Jurgen Klopp says his Borussia Dortmund side is influenced by legendary Italian tactician Arrigo Sacchi.
Speaking to Italian TV after securing a place in the Champions League Final, Klopp told Sacchi – who was in the studio listening – about his admiration for his work.
“I’ve never met Sacchi, but I learned everything I am as a Coach from him and my former Coach who took it off Sacchi,” the German, 45, noted.
“We knew that if Sacchi could do what he did with Paolo Maldini, Franco Baresi, Demetrio Albertini and all these guys then we could do the same.
“OK, we’re not as good, but tactical discipline is no problem – if they can do it then we can do it.
“So my team is 10 per cent of the team of Arrigo Sacchi.”
Sacchi introduced a zonal defence and a pressing game to the peninsula. Hired by Milan in 1987, he won the Scudetto and two European Cups.
They also triumphed in the European Super Cup and lifted two Intercontinental Titles.
Borussia will face German rivals Bayern Munich in the Champions League Final at Wembley later this month.