Liverpool Starting XI vs Man City: Confirmed Team News, Injuries and Predicted Lineup | OneFootball

Man City vs Liverpool: Premier League Showdown Preview & Predictions

Liverpool are preparing for a defining battle in their pursuit of Premier League glory as they lock horns with reigning champions Manchester City. This clash at the Etihad Stadium could significantly shape the title race, with both sides seeking a crucial three points to reinforce their ambitions.

Wednesday’s 2-2 draw with Aston Villa was a setback for Arne Slot’s men, allowing Arsenal to edge closer in the hunt for supremacy. However, with a season-defining week ahead—including a midweek encounter against Newcastle United—the Reds have little time to dwell on past mistakes. A statement win against Manchester City would restore confidence and send a clear message to their rivals.

City, meanwhile, have struggled to find their usual rhythm, particularly on the European stage. Their midweek exit from the Champions League at the hands of Real Madrid compounded their recent inconsistency. Another domestic defeat on Sunday could leave them trailing Liverpool by 20 points, raising questions about their ability to secure even a top-four finish.

Photo: IMAGO

Key Details for Man City vs Liverpool

Head-to-Head & Recent Form

Last Five Meetings:

Liverpool and Manchester City have battled fiercely in recent seasons, with results often swinging in dramatic fashion. The last five encounters have produced thrilling football, with goals aplenty and neither side backing down.

Current Form (All Competitions):

Manchester City:

Liverpool:

Photo: IMAGO

Team News & Predicted Lineups

Manchester City

Pep Guardiola faces multiple selection dilemmas ahead of this heavyweight clash. The major concern is Erling Haaland, who was an unused substitute against Real Madrid due to injury. His availability remains uncertain, but Guardiola has hinted at a possible return.

John Stones is ruled out for several months following a thigh injury sustained in Madrid, joining long-term absentees Rodri, Manuel Akanji, and Oscar Bobb. Meanwhile, Kevin De Bruyne’s omission in recent games remains a mystery, with the Belgian unlikely to start against Liverpool.

Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Ederson; Lewis, Dias, Ake, Gvardiol; Gonzalez, Kovacic; Foden, Marmoush, Savinho; Haaland.

Liverpool

Arne Slot is also dealing with injury concerns, most notably Cody Gakpo, who remains a doubt after missing Liverpool’s last two outings. However, there is hope that the Dutch forward could feature against City.

Conor Bradley will be absent after sustaining an injury against Aston Villa, adding to Liverpool’s defensive woes with Joe Gomez and Tyler Morton also sidelined. In attack, Darwin Nunez faces an uncertain role after a glaring miss against Villa, prompting speculation that Diogo Jota will lead the line instead.

Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Diaz; Jota.

Score Prediction & Final Thoughts

Just a few months ago, Liverpool would have been clear favourites to win this fixture, given Manchester City’s erratic form. However, despite their struggles, City have managed to maintain a strong home record, dispatching teams like Newcastle and Chelsea in convincing fashion.

Liverpool’s defence has kept ten clean sheets in the league this season, yet they’ve shown signs of fatigue in recent weeks, conceding five goals in their last three matches. If Haaland is fit to play, his presence could pose serious problems for the visitors.

At the other end, Liverpool continue to lean heavily on Mohamed Salah, whose influence will be crucial if they are to secure a positive result. The Egyptian talisman has delivered time and time again, but whether he alone can overcome City’s defensive resilience remains to be seen.

This contest has all the makings of a high-scoring thriller, with both sides possessing world-class firepower. A draw seems the most likely outcome, but expect plenty of drama along the way.

Our Prediction: Manchester City 2-2 Liverpool