Jurgen Klopp sent a congratulatory message to Pep Guardiola and former Borussia Dortmund midfielder Ilkay Gundogan on their Premier League title success this season.
Manchester City sealed the title on Tuesday after Manchester United lost to Leicester, confirming the Blues' as champions with three games to spare. They replace Liverpool, who broke City's two-year hold on the title in 2018 and 2019 last season.
Speaking on Wednesday, Klopp revealed how he sent a classy message to Guardiola and old colleague Gundogan, showing the respect that exists between the two managers despite spending the last three years in direct competition for the Premier League title.
However, Klopp couldn't resist a small comment about City's spending in the transfer market as he detailed why Guardiola's men have been able to perform at such a high level in such a difficult season.
"It's a great achievement, congratulations," Klopp said.
"I texted Pep last night and I have already texted Ilkay.
"Very well done after a very difficult year for everyone, not just in football.
"What they have achieved so far is exceptional. When you bring together financial resources and football knowledge, you have a good chance to create something special.
"This is obviously the case. They have a brilliant squad and the best manager in the world - a good recipe I would say!
"It is always a joy to play against them because it's such a massive challenge.
"You can beat them but you have to be at your very top. We have done that from time to time but obviously not this season. Well deserved and congratulations."
Klopp also spoke of the challenge of catching City next season.
"My concern is not the gap with City," he said.
"We did it last year, we just need to win football games and City is not the only challenge. Chelsea will be there, look at the squad. They will go for it definitely. United in a good way. Not about who is far away.
"Our season was difficult but we don't close our eyes, we should have five or six more points, we know that. Now we need help from other teams. Not the situation you want but now we deal with that."
