SoccerPremier League

Liverpool vs. Manchester City Preview: Can City get out of their horrible slump?

Photo of Nicky Nicky30/11/2024 - 06:28 am

One of the biggest fixtures in English football takes center stage this Sunday, as Liverpool host Manchester City at Anfield in what could prove pivotal in the Premier League title race. Both teams have dominated English football in recent years, with their battles often defining the season. However, this time around, the narrative feels slightly different. Liverpool, revitalised and brimming with confidence, are on a strong run of form domestically and in Europe. Conversely, Manchester City are enduring an uncharacteristic slump under Pep Guardiola, with defensive frailties and a lack of creativity up front casting doubts over their ability to defend their title.

While City have enjoyed unprecedented success with four consecutive Premier League titles, Guardiola is now in uncharted territory, failing to win in his last six matches across all competitions. A defeat at Anfield would leave them 11 points adrift of Liverpool, a gap that might prove insurmountable. The Reds, on the other hand, are eyeing a return to the top of English football and will be eager to capitalize on City’s vulnerability. The stage is set for another epic encounter in this storied rivalry, with the stakes as high as ever.

Team News

Liverpool

Liverpool entered this clash with a few injury concerns. Conor Bradley picked up a suspected hamstring issue during the midweek Champions League win over Real Madrid, while Ibrahima Konate also required post-match treatment and will need an assessment before the weekend. However, there’s good news for Arne Slot as Trent Alexander-Arnold is expected to return to the starting lineup after being named on the bench against Madrid. The Reds’ attacking quartet of Mohamed Salah, Darwin Núñez, Cody Gakpo, and Luis Díaz are all fit and in fine form, offering plenty of firepower against City’s shaky backline.

Manchester City

Pep Guardiola’s defensive headaches persist, with John Stones and Mateo Kovacic sidelined and key midfielder Rodri in the treatment room for the whole season. Ruben Dias’ return to the bench in midweek offers some hope, but City’s fragile defence was once again exposed as they let a 3-0 lead slip to draw 3-3 against Feyenoord. City’s attack, led by Erling Haaland, has also looked less sharp recently, with the Norwegian striker enduring a rare barren spell. Guardiola will need big performances from Kevin De Bruyne and Bernardo Silva to stand any chance of turning their form around at Anfield.

Key Players

Liverpool – Mohamed Salah

Mohamed Salah continues to cement his status as one of the Premier League’s most decisive players and Liverpool’s talisman. The Egyptian forward has developed a knack for stepping up in the biggest games, and his record against Manchester City underlines his importance to Arne Slot’s side. Salah has scored or assisted in each of his last five appearances against City in all competitions, highlighting his ability to rise to the occasion.

Known for his devastating pace, sharp movement, and unerring finishing ability, Salah thrives in transition and is lethal when given space in and around the box. Beyond his goal contributions, Salah’s work rate and creativity also make him a threat, with his link-up play alongside Darwin Núñez and Cody Gakpo creating chaos for opposing defences. Against a City defence that has looked fragile in recent weeks, Salah could once again be the decisive factor for the Reds at Anfield.

Mohamed Salah has been vital for Liverpool
(Photo by Crystal Pix/MB Media/Getty Images)

Manchester City – Ilkay Gundogan

His return has been pivotal in providing stability and experience to City’s midfield, especially during challenging periods. Gündoğan’s ability to control the tempo of the game, combined with his vision and precise passing, makes him indispensable in orchestrating play from the center of the park.

His knack for making late runs into the box adds an additional goal threat, exemplified by his crucial goals in previous title races. As City faces a formidable Liverpool side, Gündoğan’s leadership and composure under pressure will be vital in maintaining possession and dictating play, aiming to steer the team out of their current slump and back into contention.

Mr Reliable - Ilkay Gundogan will be key against Liverpool
(Photo by Craig Mercer/MB Media/Getty Images)

Key Statistics

  • Liverpool have lost just one of their last 14 home Premier League games against Manchester City, making Anfield a fortress in this rivalry.
  • Mohamed Salah has scored or assisted in each of his last five games against Manchester City in all competitions.
  • Erling Haaland is without a goal in his last four Premier League matches, his longest drought since joining Manchester City.
  • Pep Guardiola’s six-game winless run is the longest of his managerial career.
  • Liverpool have scored 34 goals in their last 10 games across all competitions, averaging 3.4 goals per game.

By Nicky Helfgott – NickyHelfgott1 on X (Twitter)

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Photo of Nicky Nicky30/11/2024 - 06:28 am

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