Klopp: I used to support Barcelona more and hated how Pepe swept everything away in defense

Germany manager Jürgen Klopp has stated he favors Barcelona to win Sunday's El Clásico against Real Madrid. In his view, Hansi Flick's Barcelona is clearly the stronger team at this stage. However, Klopp also admitted he has always had a personal preference for Barcelona.

In an interview with German broadcaster DAZN, Klopp confirmed he would not miss the highly anticipated Spanish football clash: "Of course, I will watch El Clásico between Barcelona and Real Madrid. I have watched this match at every stage of my life."

Klopp also discussed how his views on the rivalry have evolved and why he supports compatriot Hansi Flick's Barcelona.

Klopp said: "In the past, I supported Barcelona more because I hated how Pepe and other defenders used to just sweep everything away in the backline. That was the only reason I always supported Barcelona. Nowadays, I look at the game from a neutral perspective. I support the stronger team. And as things stand, that team is likely to be Barcelona."

Barcelona has had a strong start to the season and will host their old rivals at Camp Nou, currently leading Real Madrid by six points. However, Barcelona suffered their first defeat of the season this week against Paris Saint-Germain.

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