Former Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal believes Liverpool are the best team in Europe - but doesn't want them to win the Champions League this season. And it's not for the reason you think.
The Dutchman hasn't managed since leaving Old Trafford in 2016, and announced his retirement from football earlier this month.
Having also managed Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Ajax, the 67-year-old was inevitably quizzed about this season's Champions League when conducting his first interview with the English press since his United departure.
Follow the latest Liverpool news and transfer rumours HERE
And there was no former club loyalty from Van Gaal when choosing the club he considers the best in Europe.
"People think Barcelona are the best but they are not," he told BBC Sport . Manchester City and Liverpool are more of a team than Barcelona - and Liverpool are more of a team than City."
But despite backing Jurgen Klopp 's side, he doesn't want them to win the Champions League this season. And it's nothing to do with his Manchester United allegiances.
He said: "In my philosophy the best team shall win but I hope for City because they play the best football."
