Image Credits: Imago Images
It’s one of those games that can shape a season.
Liverpool go head-to-head with Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium — a match that could have huge implications in the Premier League title race.
Arne Slot’s men arrive in Manchester fresh from a massive Champions League win over Real Madrid, a performance many fans called their most complete of the campaign.
Momentum is back, belief is high, and the Reds now face the ultimate test against the defending champions.
There’s been plenty of noise around team selection in the build-up.
Alexander Isak’s fitness has been the main talking point after the club’s £125 million summer signing returned to training on Friday.
Jeremie Frimpong and Alisson remain unavailable, while Andy Robertson’s workload has been closely watched after a run of three straight starts.
Cody Gakpo and Florian Wirtz have also been under the spotlight, with fans debating who deserves to start in attack.
Now, the lineup is confirmed — and it gives a clear message about Slot’s thinking ahead of this huge clash.
Arne Slot has confirmed that Alexander Isak will not start, with the Liverpool boss urging patience.
“I know that I said three weeks ago that his pre-season has ended so now it’s time for us to see where he is.”
“But I have to come back to those words,” Slot said.
“Because if you are three weeks only with the rehab, that doesn’t bring you back to the levels he was three weeks ago.”
“Although, our rehab team is doing an incredible job.”
“But you cannot compare rehab with games of football or training sessions with the team.”
“As much as we try to replicate it, that’s simply not possible.”
“So, again I have to say, give him some time.”
That means Hugo Ekitike leads the line once again, supported by Mohamed Salah and Florian Wirtz.
Alexander Isak makes the bench this evening.
The Reds’ confirmed XI: Mamardashvili; Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Szoboszlai, Mac Allister; Salah, Ekitike, Wirtz.
Kick-off is at 16:30 GMT at the Etihad — and Liverpool are ready for a fight.
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