Liverpool vs Man City: 8 key observations before Premier League showdown

Manchester City’s rivalry with Liverpool has defined the last half-decade and a bit in the Premier League, despite Pep Guardiola’s men winning five league titles to Jurgen Klopp’s one. That undoubtedly raises conversations about the English top flight becoming a “farmers league”, a term used to label competitions dominated by one club.

Sunday’s encounter pits first against second, with both sides separated by one point and third-placed Arsenal two points behind Klopp’s men. While Mikel Arteta’s troops could be top of the Premier League before this weekend’s showdown on Merseyside, this final league clash between these managers, who have won it all in England, should be mouth-watering.

Before Liverpool host Man City on Sunday, Pulse Sports highlights possible areas that give either side the edge heading into the gameweek 28 encounter.

Manchester City enter the match in ominous form, having won nine of their last ten league games. The return of key players like Kevin De Bruyne and Erling Haaland has bolstered their squad, and Phil Foden's impressive 2023-24 makes them favourites to clinch their fourth consecutive Premier League title.

While Liverpool have seen improvements in their injury situation, they still have key players sidelined. Alisson, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Curtis Jones, and Diogo Jota are among those unavailable, while doubts loom over the fitness of Ibrahima Konate, who was withdrawn in Thursday’s Europa League last-16 first-leg tie against Sparta Prague.

However, Mohamed Salah is pushing for a return to the starting lineup, even if it remains to be seen how many minutes the Liverpool forward has in his legs.

Liverpool manager Klopp faces some selection dilemmas, particularly in defence and midfield. With competition for places fierce, players like Joe Gomez and Jarell Quansah could challenge for starting spots.

Manchester City, relatively unscathed by injuries, can field their fiercest lineup. With the likes of Rodri, Bernardo Silva, De Bruyne, and Haaland expected to feature, they pose a formidable challenge for Liverpool.

Having seen Jeremy Doku underwhelm in last weekend’s Manchester derby, the Spaniard could opt for a side inclined to retain possession in the attacking areas to prevent Liverpool counterattacks, pointing to the Belgian being content with a role on the bench.

Klopp emphasises the importance of the Anfield atmosphere, highlighting its significance in big matches like this. The home crowd's support could be crucial in inspiring Liverpool to victory. With Klopp’s team winning four of the seven Anfield league meetings with Pep’s City (two draws and one defeat), the 2020 Premier League-winning manager seeks a fifth on Sunday.

While De Bruyne and Haaland garner attention, Rodri remains a pivotal figure for Manchester City. His unbeaten streak spanning 60 games underscores his importance to the team's success.

Despite their dominance in recent years, the Cityzens have struggled at Anfield, securing just one victory since 2003 — a 4-1 win on Merseyside in February 2021. Liverpool will aim to maintain their stronghold over City's visits to Anfield.

Michael Oliver will officiate Sunday's match, with his past encounters with Liverpool adding intrigue. The referee's decisions could significantly impact the outcome of the game.

Liverpool and Man City are set to clash in what could be a season-defining match for both teams. With the Premier League title race in full swing, Sunday’s encounter holds immense significance in potentially shaping the destiny of the trophy.