On Wednesday night, when word of Manchester United’s difficulties in the Carabao Cup broke, Jurgen Klopp couldn’t help but smile.
A subpar Newcastle team eliminated Man United from the competition, and Liverpool defeated Bournemouth 2-1 to move to the quarterfinals.
At both halftime and fulltime, Old Trafford was rocked by boos as Erik ten Hag continues to bear the brunt of the burden following their disastrous season opener.
Talking to Sky Sports, Ten Hag accepted full responsibility for the loss. “We know it’s not good enough,” he remarked. It is our obligation, and it is my responsibility as well. I’m sorry for the supporters. I have to correct it because it doesn’t meet our requirements.
“This is insufficient. I have no doubt that the players will rise to the occasion; they are standing by one another and, despite what has been shown, they are not doing well enough. We must work together to do this, for which I am accountable.
Even though everything at United is bleak, Merseyside opponents take great pleasure in witnessing the Red Devils’ hardships. Klopp was told of the outcome by his press officer while he watched the score on TV.
The Red Devils’ disastrous outcome was then conveyed by Klopp, who gave an audible “ooo” and then grimaced.
In the quarterfinals, which are scheduled to take place the week starting on December 18, Liverpool will play West Ham.