Liverpool vs Manchester City: team news for massive Anfield clash

Arne Slot’s Reds, riding high at the top of the Premier League, welcome Pep Guardiola’s perennial winners to Anfield.

Anfield is set to host its second blockbuster event this week. Fresh off a triumphant victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League, Liverpool now turns its focus to Sunday’s high-stakes showdown against a struggling Manchester City.

The Reds sit atop both the Premier League and European standings, showcasing their dominance under new manager Arne Slot, who has delivered near-flawless results since succeeding Jürgen Klopp. Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola faces mounting challenges in assembling a winning lineup to halt City’s slump. A win for Liverpool could extend their lead over City to a commanding 11 points, signaling a major blow to the reigning champions‘ title hopes. Flip the narrative, however, and it’s just five.

Guardiola faces make-or-break moment

Despite the growing gap in the standings, Guardiola remains adamant that City are still contenders for the title. However, another misstep would significantly undermine their chances of retaining the Premier League crown. The Citizens are winless in their last six matches – a streak that includes a frustrating draw against Feyenoord. After building a 3-0 lead, City’s defensive frailties allowed the Dutch side to stage a stunning comeback, leaving fans at the Etihad disheartened.

Injuries to key players have exacerbated City’s struggles, draining the energy and confidence of those available to play. As Guardiola himself admits, City’s biggest enemy is their own inconsistency. With a trip to Anfield looming, the uphill battle continues - even with De Bruyne’s gradual return to form and Aké and Grealish rejoining the starting XI against Feyenoord.

Salah continues to shine for Liverpool despite absences

At the heart of Liverpool’s success is Mohamed Salah, who remains Anfield’s undisputed king. Only Erling Haaland has scored more goals in the Premier League this season, while only Bukayo Saka has provided more assists. Salah, now in the final year of his contract, continues to lead Liverpool’s attack with the same fire and determination he displayed on day one.

The Reds are also boosted by the return of Trent Alexander-Arnold, though they they will be without Ibrahima Konaté along with Alisson, Diogo Jota, Kostas Tsimikas, and Federico Chiesa. Despite these setbacks, Liverpool has started the season with unrelenting momentum, showing little sign of slowing down, but with a small cushion to soften any blips.

Liverpool - Man City: probable lineups

Liverpool: Kelleher; Alexander-Arnold, Gomez, Van Dijk, Robertson; Mac Allister, Gravenberch, Szoboszlai; Salah, Darwin Núñez, Luis Díaz.

Manchester City: Ederson; Walker, Dias, Akanji, Gvardiol; Gündogan, Matheus Nunes; Bernardo Silva, De Bruyne, Savinho; Haaland.

Referee: C. Kavanagh
Venue: Anfield, Liverpool
Kickoff Time: 11 a.m. ET / 8 a.m. PT