){kind=small}
Premier){kind=small}
MSU
){kind=small}
ULS
){kind=small}
KAK
){kind=small}
SOF
){kind=small}
POL
){kind=small}
MAU
){kind=small}
SHA
){kind=small}
LaLiga){kind=logo}
LEV
){kind=logo}
VIL
){kind=small}
Serie A){kind=small}
MIL
){kind=small}
COMO
){kind=small}
Premier){kind=logo}
WOL
){kind=small}
ARS
){kind=small}
BMT
){kind=small}
KAS
){kind=small}
KCB
){kind=small}
AFC
){kind=small}
Bundesl){kind=logo}
M05
){kind=logo}
HSV
){kind=logo}
SAS
){kind=small}
VER
){kind=small}
Ligue 1){kind=small}
B29
){kind=small}
OM
){kind=small}
ATH
){kind=logo}
ELC
){kind=small}
TUF
){kind=small}
MUR
){kind=small}
BAN
){kind=small}
BID
){kind=small}
RSO
){kind=logo}
OVI
){kind=small}
POR
)
Manchester City host Liverpool in a battle of Premier League title favourites at the Etihad Stadium with both sides heading into the game in great form.
A pivotal Premier League encounter is set for Sunday as a resurgent Liverpool travel to face Manchester City, in a match that could significantly shape the title race.
Both giants are chasing early leaders Arsenal after some inconsistent results, making this weekend's duel a prime opportunity to make a definitive statement.
Preview
While a victory for either side would send a strong message to their rivals, league-leading Arsenal will be hoping for a draw at the Etihad Stadium.
Pep Guardiola's squad enters the contest with the dual advantage of playing at home and carrying impressive momentum. City have suffered only one defeat since early September and have won six of their last seven games across all competitions.
The phenomenal Erling Haaland has been central to their dominance, complemented by standout performances from Phil Foden and Jeremy Doku.
Meanwhile, Liverpool seem to be hitting their stride again after a difficult spell. Back-to-back clean-sheet victories, including convincing wins over Aston Villa and a crucial triumph against Real Madrid, have revitalised their campaign and pushed them back into title contention. However, this trip to Manchester will be the ultimate test of their renewed confidence.
The Reds broke a long winless streak at the Etihad on their way to last season's Premier League title, but historically, they have struggled at the venue. Prior to that victory in February, Liverpool had not won a league match away to City since November 2015.
Man City Team News
Pep Guardiola has indicated that key midfielder Rodri is unlikely to feature on Sunday, with the manager preferring not to risk him before the upcoming international break. The Spaniard was absent for the midweek Champions League victory over Borussia Dortmund, where his replacement, Nico Gonzalez, delivered an impressive performance.
City's midfield woes are compounded by an ankle injury to Mateo Kovacic, who is expected to be sidelined for an extended period. Ruben Dias and Bernardo Silva are tipped to return to the starting lineup, potentially replacing John Stones and Savinho from the team that comfortably defeated Dortmund.
Liverpool Team News
Liverpool could see the return of Alexander Isak, who has been out for four matches. Manager Arne Slot confirmed the forward resumed training on Friday and is in contention for a spot in the squad.
However, the team will still be without goalkeeper Alisson and right-back Jeremie Frimpong, who is recovering from a hamstring issue. Young prospects Giovanni Leoni, Stefan Bajcetic, and Jayden Danns remain long-term absentees.
Slot faces a selection dilemma on the left wing, needing to choose between Florian Wirtz, who shone in their midweek fixture, and the returning Cody Gakpo. Andy Robertson is expected to retain his left-back position over Milos Kerkez following a string of strong displays.
Predicted Lineups
Man City Predicted XI (4-1-4-1): Donnarumma; Nunes, Dias, Gvardiol, O’Reilly; González; Silva, Reijnders, Foden, Doku; Haaland.
Liverpool Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Mamardashvili; Bradley, Konaté, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Gakpo; Ekitiké.