Pep Guardiola has playfully remarked that he’ll sleep better next season without Jurgen Klopp as a main rival. Yet, he predicts the Liverpool manager will swiftly return to the highest echelons of football.

Following Klopp’s surprising announcement of his departure from Liverpool after eight and a half years, Guardiola, whose Manchester City has been a dominant force in the Premier League, acknowledged the impact of the news.

“I will sleep better. The games against Liverpool have almost been a nightmare. Of course, he will be missed. I was shocked like everyone,” said Guardiola, recognising Klopp’s significant role in the football landscape.

“We cannot define our period together here without him. We cannot define our period without Liverpool. It’s impossible. They’ve been our biggest rival, and personally, he’s been the best rival I’ve ever had in my life.”

Guardiola highlighted Klopp’s influence on the Premier League, stating that the German’s charisma, personality, and positive playing style will be missed. He extended his well wishes to Klopp, acknowledging the challenges ahead for Liverpool without him.

“Maybe it’s my opinion, he won’t admit it, but he will be back. I know it. Maybe in 10 years, I don’t know; he said he needs to recharge his energy. That’s his personality and his energy. He’ll be back at the national team, another team, somewhere, I don’t know.

“Football needs personalities like him. My dream is I hope we can have dinners together and all the drinks we deserve to take,” Guardiola added, expressing hope for continued camaraderie despite Klopp’s departure.