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With just one point separating the two teams after 27 games of the 2023-24 season, this match promises to be a thrilling showdown for the top spot. Although Arsenal could shake things up before the big game, this will be the final face-off between Klopp and Guardiola in the Premier League this season, making it a crucial battle for title contention.
Liverpool currently holds the top spot thanks to Darwin Nunez's dramatic winning header against Nottingham Forest. However, controversy surrounded the decision as the referee awarded an incorrect drop-ball, sparking debate among fans and players alike. Regardless, Liverpool maintained their lead over Manchester City, but a slip-up could see them lose their position if Arsenal triumph over Brentford.
Liverpool heads into this clash following a convincing victory over Sparta Prague in the Europa League. Their recent form has been impressive, with seven consecutive wins across all competitions. However, their defensive record at home has been less than perfect, giving Manchester City hope of spoiling their party.
On the other hand, Manchester City has been on a remarkable winning streak, with 16 victories in their last 17 matches. They are still in contention for a treble this season, having comfortably secured their spot in the Champions League quarter-finals.
Despite their recent dominance, they will face a tough challenge at Anfield, where Liverpool has lost just one of their last 20 Premier League home games against them.
With both teams eager to secure vital points in the title race, Sunday's match promises to be an electrifying encounter between two footballing giants.
INJURIES & SUSPENSION
Liverpool's dominant victory over Sparta Prague in the Europa League marked the return of Mohamed Salah from his second muscle injury of the year. Despite having a goal disallowed for offside, Salah's comeback was a positive note for the team, and he looks set to feature in the starting lineup for the first time since New Year's Day.However, Liverpool still faces challenges with several key players sidelined. Ben Doak, Joel Matip, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Alisson Becker, Stefan Bajcetic, Thiago Alcantara, Curtis Jones, and Ryan Gravenberch are all unavailable for selection. Additionally, Jayden Danns is uncertain to play following a concussion suffered last weekend.
During Thursday's match, Liverpool suffered another setback when Ibrahima Konate had to be substituted due to an unspecified issue. His availability for Sunday's game remains uncertain pending further assessment.
Manchester City also encountered injury concerns following their match against Copenhagen. Matheus Nunes suffered a dislocated finger but is expected to recover quickly. However, Jeremy Doku's muscular problems cast doubt on his availability for the upcoming match, while Jack Grealish is confirmed to be out due to a groin injury.
Despite these setbacks, Manchester City has key players like Phil Foden, Kyle Walker, Bernardo Silva, Kevin De Bruyne, and Nathan Ake well-rested and ready to contribute. Should Doku be unable to play, Julian Alvarez, who scored in the previous match, could step in as a replacement.
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
Liverpool possible starting lineup:Kelleher; Bradley, Gomez, Van Dijk, Robertson; Szoboszlai, Endo, Mac Allister; Salah, Nunez, Diaz
Manchester City possible starting lineup:
Ederson; Walker, Dias, Stones, Ake; Silva, Rodri, De Bruyne; Foden, Haaland, Alvarez
EXPERT PREDICTION
Liverpool 2-3 Manchester City
Considering Liverpool's vulnerability to conceding goals at Anfield, Manchester City holds the advantage with fresher players and a flawless record on the road in 2024. We believe that City's form will enable them to exploit Liverpool's fatigue, potentially ending Klopp's hopes of an unbeaten home season and seizing control of the Premier League title race.
