'Damn it! Strong!': Fabinho's reaction to hearing Klopp's criticism of Brazil coach Tite

Back in 2020, Jurgen Klopp was critical of Brazil coach Tite's failure to pick Fabinho more often for the national team.

"I'm not sure if Tite's too worried because he plays him never so he will probably now not sit on the bench for the next three international games,” Klopp said after Fabinho was injured playing for Liverpool before he was meant to go on international duty with Brazil.

Tite responded to Klopp's comments, saying they both want what's best for the players: “Klopp and I have the same thinking and the same scale of values. The health of athletes is essential. It is human."

“The use is secondary, just as sport is secondary when we talk about health, when we talk about people, when we talk about something that is bigger. We have this same idea and way of watching football.”

Fabinho has now addressed Klopp's comments saying it's not something he had expected:

"After I had already won the position at Liverpool and won important titles, Klopp surprised me with a statement speaking directly to Tite," Fabinho said. "When I heard it, I thought: 'Damn it! Strong!'

"I was curious how Tite would react, but he was quiet, good. Klopp is older than me, I can't control what he says! (laughs). He has a very strong name in football and knows the size of his statements. He always cares about his players, the travels, the wear and everything.

"He's already talked to me about selection (Brazil call-up). I made it clear that I always wanted to defend Brazil and for the dream of playing in a World Cup. He understands. He said he never played for the national team and that he doesn't know the feeling, but that he understood me.

"I've never played professionally for any Brazilian club, but when I'm asked if I have that frustration, the answer is no. I seized the opportunity that came early for me and made my career in Europe."

Source: Liverpool Echo