Heavyweight Clash at the Etihad
Manchester City welcome Liverpool to the Etihad Stadium this afternoon for a blockbuster Premier League encounter. This highly anticipated match sees two giants of English football locking horns, with both teams eager for a crucial victory to keep pace with early leaders Arsenal.
Liverpool's Team News and Injury Concerns
Liverpool manager Arne Slot faces some significant selection headaches. The Reds will once again be without first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker, though there is positive news as the Brazilian international is expected to be available after the international break for the match against Nottingham Forest on 22 November.
Further compounding Liverpool's issues, defender Jeremie Frimpong remains sidelined with a hamstring injury that could keep him out of action until December. There is also a major decision to be made regarding record signing Alexander Isak. The striker has missed Liverpool's last four matches with a groin problem and is only just returning to training with the squad. Given the caution exercised with his recovery, it is unlikely he will start, with Hugo Ekitike poised to lead the line instead.
Another tactical dilemma for Slot involves Florian Wirtz. With Dominik Szoboszlai now considered integral to the manager's plans, the German playmaker could find himself on the bench for another high-profile league game.
Manchester City's Squad Update
Across the dugout, Pep Guardiola is not expecting any of his injured players to make a timely return this weekend. This means midfield lynchpin Rodri is a major doubt. The Spain international was a late substitute against Bournemouth last weekend but was omitted from the squad entirely for the midweek Champions League victory over Borussia Dortmund.
In more positive news for City fans, Rayan Cherki, Ruben Dias, and Bernardo Silva were all rested during the midweek fixture, a strong indication that they will be recalled to the starting line-up for this crucial domestic battle. Mateo Kovacic, however, remains unavailable for selection.
Form Guide and Title Implications
Both teams have experienced stuttering starts to the campaign but appear to be finding their rhythm. Guardiola's City side have lost three of their opening ten league matches, but a dominant win over a strong Bournemouth outfit, combined with Erling Haaland's magnificent form, suggests they are back on track.
Liverpool, meanwhile, ended a worrying run of four consecutive Premier League defeats with a victory over Aston Villa last weekend. This was followed by a morale-boosting win against Real Madrid in the Champions League, which has helped steady the ship at Anfield.
With Arsenal already setting a fierce pace at the top, this match represents a critical moment for both City and Liverpool in their pursuit of the Premier League title.
How to Watch Man City vs Liverpool
The match kicks off at 4:30pm on Sunday, 9 November. Fans in the UK can watch the action live on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event. The game is also available to stream via the Sky Go app and NOW TV for subscribers.
