Manchester City vs Liverpool Preview: Can Pep’s side bounce back in this thrilling clash?
The Premier League’s most thrilling rivalry returns to the Etihad this weekend, as Manchester City face off against Liverpool in a fixture that has produced its fair share of chaos in recent seasons. After a season of underwhelming performances, the reigning champions find themselves in unfamiliar territory, struggling to hit the heights that have become synonymous with Pep Guardiola’s City side.
Their recent collapse in the Champions League, where they were humbled by Real Madrid with a 6-3 aggregate loss, has left fans questioning whether the team can recover their best form. With a series of inconsistent results piling up, Guardiola will need to find answers quickly if City are to salvage a season that was supposed to see them continue their dominance.
Manchester City's loss against Real Madrid last night was their 13th defeat of the season!
— 365Scores (@365Scores) February 20, 2025
The most defeats a Pep Guardiola side has ever conceded in a single campaign! pic.twitter.com/jPQMT0WKOr
On the other side, Arne Slot’s Liverpool come into the match with more optimism. Their remarkable win over City earlier in the season, where they dominated in a 2-0 victory, has shown they can still compete with the league’s best, and Slot’s tactical approach has injected fresh belief into the squad. Liverpool, currently enjoying a better run of form than their Manchester counterparts, will look to build on their momentum and continue their push up the table.
The Reds’ form and squad depth make them a formidable opponent, and they’ll be hungry to extend their lead over City in this crucial clash. For both teams, this match could be a defining moment in their respective seasons, as City seek to bounce back and Liverpool look to assert their dominance.
Manchester City vs Liverpool – what you need to know
Team News
Manchester City
City have been a shadow of their former title-winning selves this season, but the addition of new signings in January, including £60 million Omar Marmoush, has injected fresh hope into their squad. The striker’s recent hat-trick against Newcastle has provided much-needed momentum, and City will rely on him to continue his impressive form. However, Guardiola will be without a few key players for this encounter, including Manuel Akanji, John Stones, Oscar Bobb, Rodri, and potentially Jack Grealish with their availability remaining uncertain as we approach matchday. Star striker Erling Haaland, who missed out midweek against Real Madrid, is also a doubt as he deals with discomfort in his knee.
Liverpool
Liverpool head into this game with almost a full squad, save for the suspensions of Curtis Jones and manager Arne Slot, both of whom are serving a ban after being sent off midweek against Aston Villa. Cody Gakpo also might sit out although his status is unconfirmed. The Reds have been in fine form, with Mo Salah, Luis Diaz, and the ever-impressive Trent Alexander-Arnold leading the charge. Their midfield has been a key area of strength, with Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai adding dynamism and creativity. If Slot’s side can replicate the commanding performance they displayed when they beat City in December, they’ll feel confident about extending their positive run.
Key Players (Egyptian Edition!)
Manchester City – Omar Marmoush
Omar Marmoush has quickly established himself as one of Manchester City’s most exciting new signings after his high-profile move from Eintracht Frankfurt in January for £60 million. The Egyptian forward’s goal-scoring prowess in the Bundesliga, where he netted 15 goals in 17 appearances, showcased his potential to thrive in a top-tier league like the Premier League. His recent performance against Newcastle, where he scored a stunning hat-trick in a 4-0 win at the Etihad, highlighted his ability to make an immediate impact.
Marmoush’s pace, clinical finishing, and versatility in attack make him a key weapon for City as they look to bounce back from a disappointing season. In a game where City must reclaim their confidence, Marmoush’s form could provide the spark they need. His direct approach and fearless attitude will be vital against Liverpool’s solid defence, and he’ll be the player most likely to punish any mistakes at the back. With City’s attacking play still searching for consistency, Marmoush’s goalscoring instinct could be the difference between three points and another frustrating result.
Omar Marmoush just made HISTORY!
— 365Scores (@365Scores) February 15, 2025
A hat-trick in just 3 Premier League matches—Salah needed 43 games to do the same.
The Egyptian king is rising FAST.Watch out, Premier League!
pic.twitter.com/BI1vqfAFnf
Liverpool – Mohamed Salah
When it comes to consistency and sheer brilliance in the Premier League, Mohamed Salah is in a league of his own. The Egyptian forward has been nothing short of sensational this season, scoring 24 goals and providing 15 assists in just 26 Premier League appearances, cementing his reputation as one of the best in the world. Salah is in the form of his life, consistently delivering when Liverpool need him most. His blistering pace, exceptional dribbling, and precise finishing make him a nightmare for defenders, and his influence on the game often extends beyond just his goal tally.
In this crucial fixture, Salah will be pivotal for Liverpool, not only as the primary goal-scoring threat but also as a creative force capable of unlocking any defence. His ability to exploit space and produce moments of magic in tight situations will be critical as Liverpool look to extend their lead over City. Salah’s partnership with Diogo Jota and Luis Díaz up front adds additional attacking options, but the spotlight will undoubtedly be on Salah to make the difference in a high-stakes game. His impact on both ends of the pitch, especially in big games like this, will be key to securing all three points for Liverpool.
Key Statistics
- Liverpool have struggled to find success at the Etihad in recent years, failing to secure a victory in their last seven visits. In this run, they’ve lost four times and drawn three, with their most recent encounter ending in a 1-1 draw, where John Stones and Alexis Mac Allister found the net.
- Mohamed Salah’s remarkable form this season has seen him score 24 goals, putting him ahead of Erling Haaland, who has netted 19. With 15 assists also to his name, Salah’s 39 goal contributions this campaign are just four shy of breaking Luis Suárez’s club record of 43 from the 2013/14 season.
- Salah’s incredible consistency has also seen him achieve a rare feat, becoming the first player since Lionel Messi in 2014-15 to score and assist in 10 different matches across Europe’s Top 5 Leagues.
- Liverpool have been prolific this season, currently sitting as the Premier League’s top scorers with 62 goals, while Manchester City are second with 52. Despite their attacking strength, City’s defence has been leaky, with 35 goals conceded—matching Manchester United’s defensive record. In contrast, Liverpool have been solid at the back, keeping the most clean sheets in the league (10).
Mohamed Salah is the first player to score AND assist in 10 different games in one of Europe's big five leagues in a season since Lionel Messi in 2014-15! pic.twitter.com/f2e32A8Cgb
— 365Scores (@365Scores) February 20, 2025
By Nicky Helfgott – NickyHelfgott1 on X (Twitter)
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