Manchester City, in last season pipped Liverpool to the Premier title by just a point as they retained the accolade, and entering into a new season, Klopp believes the Citizens are the side to beat.
"Because they've won the league twice in a row. That's one reason," he said. "Ours was the first year on that level. We have to prove we can be on that level again. That's how it is.
"The 97 points were no coincidence but it's not like we outplayed all the teams like we shot them out of the stadium constantly. We needed tied games, close games a lot. We were a real result machine last year, it was really, really impressive.
"The champions are favourites. They didn't lose a player – they have lost Kompany, sorry, and brought in another one. I knew they would do something [in the transfer market].
"If somebody asks if we're favourites in the Champions League we probably couldn't deny it. We don't think it's like this, but then we are in the final twice in a row so obviously we know the way to the final. Does that mean we will be in the final again? It doesn't mean it, but it's possible."
Liverpool will begin their 2019/20 Premier League season with a game against newly-promoted side Norwich City at Anfield, a week after their Community Shield clash against Manchester City.
