Image Credits: Imago Images
Liverpool head to Manchester City on Sunday for one of the season’s marquee fixtures, with both sides seeking the kind of statement victory that could define their title ambitions.
The reigning Premier League champions visit the Etihad Stadium for a 16:30 GMT kick-off, looking to edge closer to leaders Arsenal in what has become a predictable three-horse race at the top of the table
Arne Slot’s men have rekindled their campaign in recent weeks following a troubling spell that saw them lose six in seven matches.
Back-to-back victories over Aston Villa and Real Madrid have restored genuine optimism, though the away record will be a concern for Slot.
Manchester City, meanwhile, has found their rhythm after showing little consistency during the early stages of the season.
Pep Guardiola’s side followed a commanding 3-1 victory over Bournemouth with a devastating 4-1 triumph over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League.
However, it’s not all positive for the Manchester outfit.
Rodri remains a major doubt heading into Sunday’s clash, with Pep Guardiola revealing fresh concerns about the Ballon d’Or winner’s fitness.
Though Rodri has returned to training following a hamstring setback, he was omitted entirely from the Champions League squad to face Dortmund.
Addressing the media ahead of hosting Liverpool on Sunday, Guardiola said he will not be taking “risks” with the Spanish international:
“We will see tomorrow but I think we will not take risks. There is an international break afterwards and we want to wait for the moment where he feels strong and feels fit, and can sustain the actions in the game which are so demanding,” the City boss said
“Still, we are in November. The best part of the season is ahead of us, and we need him. We are playing without the Ballon d’Or [winner] from two seasons ago, a massively important player for us and we are desperate to have him back.”
“Nico [Gonzalez] right now has become a really important and good player.”
Mateo Kovacic is the other absentee for the home side, with reports indicating he may require surgery to address calcification in his heel.
The 31-year-old has managed only two substitute appearances this season following Achilles surgery in the summer.
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