Liverpool have the opportunity to make a significant statement this weekend as they take on a Manchester City team that has found it challenging to keep up the momentum this season.
Billy More Nov 29
Liverpool and Manchester City have been at the forefront of English football’s fiercest title rivalries over the last six years, particularly under the stewardship of Jürgen Klopp and Pep Guardiola. Between them, they have dominated the Premier League, winning the last seven titles, with Manchester City claiming six and Liverpool securing one. Despite City’s superior record in title duels, this upcoming fixture presents Liverpool with an opportunity to assert their dominance and widen the gap in this season’s race.
Under the guidance of Arne Slot, Liverpool have been exceptional, with the Dutch manager steering the Reds to 11 wins in his first 13 Premier League matches. They now hold an eight-point advantage over Manchester City and could extend that to 11 with a victory. Additionally, should Arsenal falter against West Ham, Liverpool might find themselves a commanding 12 points clear at the top. For Manchester City, this match is no longer a “must-not-lose” but an absolute “must-win” to keep their title hopes alive. A victory would reduce the deficit to five points, while a loss could see Arsenal overtaking them in the standings if results go their way.
Recent history between the two sides suggests this clash will be tightly contested. Last season, both league meetings ended in 1-1 draws, and City remain unbeaten in their last four matches against Liverpool. However, Anfield has been a challenging venue for Guardiola’s side. Manchester City haven’t won there since 2021, and their last three visits have resulted in two draws and a loss. Last season’s Anfield encounter was marred by controversy, with Liverpool being denied a penalty for a contentious incident involving Jeremy Doku.
Liverpool have been formidable under Arne Slot, amassing 17 wins from their first 19 games in all competitions. They are currently on a six-match winning streak and have won seven of their last eight Premier League games. At home, they’ve secured four wins from their last five league matches, losing only once all season across all competitions. Anfield has returned to its fortress-like status, with the Reds maintaining a 50% clean sheet rate and dominating possession at 58% on home turf.
Their recent performances underscore their credentials as title contenders. Liverpool ended a long drought against Real Madrid with a commanding 2-0 victory at Anfield, thanks in part to a penalty save by Caoimhin Kelleher. In the league, they showcased their resilience by coming from behind to defeat Southampton in a gutsy display.
Manchester City, by contrast, are enduring their most challenging period under Guardiola. The reigning champions have lost five of their last six matches across all competitions, including their previous three Premier League games. Their last league victory, a narrow win over Southampton, came over three weeks ago and lacked their usual dominance. On the road, City have suffered consecutive league defeats and have conceded eight goals in their last three outings.
Their defensive vulnerabilities were on full display in their most recent match, where they squandered a 3-0 lead to draw with Feyenoord at home. This collapse followed a dismal 4-0 thrashing by Tottenham in their last league outing, leaving City in a precarious position in the title race. For Guardiola and his squad, this fixture is pivotal to their chances of salvaging their campaign.
In terms of recent head-to-head statistics, both teams have scored in nine of their last ten meetings, and neither side has managed a clean sheet in their previous four clashes. Matches between Liverpool and Manchester City often deliver high-scoring affairs, with over 2.5 goals scored in five of Liverpool’s last seven games and six of City’s last seven.
Despite Manchester City’s potential to cause problems, especially if they replicate their attacking moments from the Feyenoord game, Liverpool enter this contest as clear favorites. Their current form, combined with City’s defensive frailties, points to a Liverpool victory. In what promises to be another electrifying chapter in this rivalry, the Reds are poised to edge past City with a 2-1 win, solidifying their position at the top of the Premier League.
