Despite a shaky start to the season, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp believes Manchester United are still in contention for the Premier League crown.

On Wednesday (December 6), the Red Devils overcame Chelsea 2-1, thanks to two goals from midfielder Scott McTominay (19′ and 69′). The victory moved them up to sixth in the league rankings, with 27 points from 15 games. However, they are currently nine points behind league leaders Arsenal.

Klopp claimed that Erik ten Hag’s side is in the title race (via Metro):

“Aston Villa is fantastic, and United is there.” They don’t yet play the football that everyone wants to see, whether it’s the media or whatever, and there are some arguments. But they have a ton of points! So they’re present.”

Liverpool defeated Sheffield United 2-0 in midweek (December 6), with Virgil van Dijk and Dominik Szoboszlai scoring. Klopp reiterated his commitment to his team’s title campaign, saying:

“As long as we are around there, I’m fine with that, but it’s all so difficult and so intense and all the games coming up now so let’s get through this and ask me again in April!”

At the present, the top four are Arsenal, Liverpool, Aston Villa, and Manchester City. Tottenham Hotspur, who have played one fewer game than the aforementioned teams, are fifth, tied on points with Manchester United.