“He’s flying and full of confidence” – Jurgen Klopp admits he ‘always liked’ top class Arsenal star

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has admitted that he always admired Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus.

The Brazilian has played against Klopp's Reds in high-voltage encounters on numerous occasions during his time with Manchester City. Jesus also holds a good record against Liverpool, with five goals and three assists in 12 matches.

He will now feature against the Reds for Arsenal, who he joined on a deal worth around £45 million this summer. The two teams will clash in the Premier League at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, October 9.

Klopp will undoubtedly have to keep Jesus quiet if his Liverpool side are to get a win against an upbeat Gunners team. In his press conference ahead of the match, the German tactician praised the Brazilian (via Liverpool Echo):

"I always liked Gabriel Jesus as a player. Exceptional player, you always saw that at Man City. His role at City was a nine or a winger, everyone said last season City had no number nine, but he was still there.

"Now he plays his role. He's flying and full of confidence. Top class."

Key points of Klopp press conference:

🔴 Midfield injury blow
🔴 Two men close to return
🔴 Arsenal squad thoughts
🔴 Nunez and new formation

Full recap 👇 liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football…

In 10 matches across all competitions, Jesus has five goals and four assists. Thanks to his exploits, Arsenal are currently top of the Premier League standings with 21 points from eight games.

Gabriel Jesus starred off the bench during Arsenal's win in midweek

With Arsenal taking on Liverpool this weekend, Mikel Arteta opted to give Gabriel Jesus some rest in midweek. The forward didn't start the Gunners' UEFA Europa League encounter against Bodo/Glimt but was named on the bench.

Jesus eventually joined proceedings in the 59th minute, replacing compatriot Gabriel Martinelli. His team were already 2-0 up at that stage thanks to goals from Eddie Nketiah and Rob Holding.

The Brazilian's class was on full display as he operated in a deeper role to orchestrate play and completed four of his five dribble attempts. One of those saw Jesus dance past three defenders inside the box, displaying immense close control, and setting up Fabio Vieira for the Gunners' third goal.

WHAT A GOAL 🤩

Made by Jesus. Finished by Fabio 😎

🔴 3-0 🟡 (84) https://t.co/K3iAKgJf9P

It was a superb display from a player who has settled in incredibly well in north London. Jesus will now look to lead his team to a win in one of their toughest tests of the season against Liverpool on Sunday.