We know what they did last summer.
In the heat of the Wanda Metropolitano, Liverpool not only made themselves the kings of Europe for a sixth time, they also delivered a stunning riposte to the critics insistent that their stunning football counted for nothing unless they managed to win something.
Ten months on and 25 points clear at the top of the Premier League, those critics are strangely silent.
Yet as Jurgen Klopp and his men return to the Metropolitano to face Atletico Madrid in Tuesday’s Champions League knockout stage tie, there is no room for complacency.
Instead there is total focus on maintaining their dominance not just in England but also across Europe.
“We know that it’s just a stadium,” said Klopp after seeing off Norwich on Saturday, “but its a positive emotion that we have when we think about that stadium.
(Image: John Powell)
“It was one of our greatest nights and I’m pretty sure that when the boys will go in they will see it. But we are not going there for a pilgrimage. For sure not. We have had enough time to let these things settle.”
Diego Simeone may have enjoyed just one win in his last seven games but Klopp, an old adversary, is taking nothing for granted against the men whose sides have a reputation for defensive discipline.
“If somebody knows how to play for a result it’s Atletico and Mr Simeone whom I respect a lot,” he added. “My goodness. Both of us, we tried a lot and didn’t win often (trophies with our teams) but we still tried. And I like that.
“He is so competitive. Wow! We actually have a good relationship but I’m really sure he will forget that on the sidelines because he is too animated!”
(Image: Getty Images)
Sadio Mane came off the bench to prove yet again that no matter how dogged or determined the defence, Liverpool have the firepower to find a way through.
Despite seeing his men score in 35 consecutive games, however, Klopp refused to take for granted that they will find a way past Atletico.
“I’ve been in football long enough to say that its possible,” he said. “but Atletico are one of the teams where it is especially difficult.”
Klopp is more concerned about coping with Portuguese schemer Joao Felix, a player whose towering ability saw him secure a move from Benfica to Atletico last summer.
(Image: Getty Images)
The 20-year-old may have scored just four times this season but Klopp intends to ensure he does not add to that tally on Tuesday night.
“I think I have the same opinion as 99 per cent of most football people in the world. He is outstanding. The talent he has, he pretty much combines everything.
“I think some of our coaches Pep and probably Victor – worked with him when he was a kid, so ask them. But he is a special, special talent.
“It’s the combination. He can combine his technical skills with speed and awareness in small spaces. In footballing terms he is really intelligent on top of that. So what more can I say? The package is really interesting.”
