Jurgen Klopp posts positive Thiago fitness update as Liverpool boss addresses Real Madrid ‘revenge’ claim

Jurgen Klopp has lauded his players for reaching another Champions League final, dismissing theories they are out for revenge against Real Madrid, but paying their boss Carlo Ancelotti the most wholesome of praise.

The Reds travel to Paris on Saturday looking to cap an incredible season. With the FA Cup and Carabao Cups in the bag, they can seal a cup treble with victory in the Champions League final. Klopp is looking for his second success in the competition in three years, following their 2-0 win over Tottenham in 2019.

Liverpool go into the game with fitness doubts surrounding midfielder Thiago Alcantara. The Spaniard hobbled off just before half-time against Wolves on Sunday with an Achilles problem.

He appears touch and go to make the final, but Klopp is hopeful he will be fit to start for Liverpool.

“I only met him inside, there’s a good chance. It’s surprisingly good,” he said. “The good news overnight was that it was not that bad. He could be able to train tomorrow [Thursday].”

Asked if his players will be hurt by missing out on winning the Premier League title, he insists his players have already moved on.

“Nobody feels the pain from Sunday anymore. We are really just looking forward to this game against an incredibly strong opponent.”

That opponent, Real Madrid, were victors over Liverpool in the 2018 final. Mohamed Salah has already made clear his feelings on facing them again, underlining his motivation.

Klopp, however, was keeping a bit more diplomatic and insists it will be a special occasion. He’s also dismissing notions that Liverpool will be out for revenge.

“You never know when you’ll reach a Champions League final again so it’s really special. We will face the team who in the last 10 years have won it