Jurgen Klopp's pre-match warm-up ritual has been compared to the Haka in terms of gaining an edge Liverpool's opposition.
Ahead of the top-of-the-table showdown between Manchester City and Klopp's side on Saturday afternoon, Sky Sports had full access to the Etihad Stadium pitch, as broadcasters tend to for massive Premier League occasions these days.
It was presenter David Jones who spotted Klopp making his way to the halfway line during the warm-up, something the Reds boss has made a habit of.
Usually standing still, he stares out the opposition from the warm-up, and Jones felt that his actions are similar to the Haka performed by the All Blacks in terms of intimidation.
Dave Jones compares Jurgen Klopp ritual to Haka
"We just saw Jurgen Klopp walk to the halfway line over our shoulder, as we've seen him do time and time again," Jones told pundits Daniel Sturridge and Micah Richards.
"You feel like it's the Haka, it's his version of the Haka, he's standing there, staring at the opposition... can he gain anything from that, Daniel?"
Sturridge, who spent four seasons playing under Klopp, felt that move was more practical, stating that tactical insights can be gained from watching opponents being put through their paces from such proximity.
"I just think the sharpness in the players, maybe in some teams, they'll do the tactical play-throughs, you'll see the actual formation when their in possession," said the ex-Liverpool man. "I think he's just sizing them up, it's like a face-off."
"It's his version of the Haka" 😤🧠
Jurgen Klopp doing his walk up to the half-way line... pic.twitter.com/Ur8RaoGLk6— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) November 25, 2023
New Zealand Haka
The New Zealand Haka is one of the more storied rituals in sport, with many feeling that the it can unnerve opponents ahead of big rugby games.
Whether Klopp feels that he is gaining a similar edge, only he knows.
