Liverpool return to Anfield this weekend knowing that anything other than three points against Manchester City risks leaving their top-four hopes hanging by a thread. Inconsistency has defined large parts of their league campaign, but recent results suggest Arne Slot’s side may finally be finding some rhythm at a crucial stage of the season. Here is our Liverpool predicted lineup.
Liverpool Predicted Lineup vs Manchester City in the Premier League
How Liverpool Have Lined Up
Slot has continued to show tactical flexibility this season, but recent performances suggest he has settled on a system that prioritises control in midfield while still allowing Liverpool’s attacking players freedom in the final third. The balance between structure and creativity has been key, particularly in big games, where Liverpool have often looked more disciplined and focused.
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In recent weeks, Liverpool have looked more comfortable building through midfield rather than relying solely on wide overloads. The use of Gravenberch and Mac Allister as a double pivot has helped stabilise the centre of the pitch, while Wirtz’s advanced role gives the side a genuine creative hub between the lines. Against Manchester City, that balance will be tested to its limits, with Slot likely prioritising compactness without sacrificing attacking threat.
Recent Form
Liverpool come into this fixture on the back of a DWLWW run in their last five matches, a sequence that reflects both their potential and their ongoing inconsistency. There have been encouraging signs in recent wins, particularly in terms of attacking fluency and chance creation, but dropped points earlier in the run continue to weigh heavily.
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With Liverpool currently eight points behind City and fourteen adrift of league leaders Arsenal, there is little margin for error. This is the type of fixture that can redefine a season. A win would not only close the gap on Pep Guardiola’s side but also inject belief into a squad still fighting to secure Champions League qualification. Anything less risks leaving them playing catch-up for the remainder of the campaign.
Team News and Injuries to Consider
Liverpool continue to manage a lengthy injury list heading into this fixture, particularly in defensive and squad depth areas. Conor Bradley remains sidelined for the season after knee surgery, while Jeremie Frimpong is unavailable after pulling up early against Qarabağ with a muscle injury. Stefan Bajcetic is still yet to feature this season due to injury setbacks, Jayden Danns remains out and is not currently training, and Giovanni Leoni is not expected to play again in 2025-26 as he continues his recovery from an ACL injury.
Alexander Isak remains a long-term absentee after ankle surgery. As for Joe Gomez, he has missed the last two matches since being forced off against Bournemouth, but Slot has suggested there is some hope he could train on Saturday, meaning he is not expected to be available to start, though he could potentially be an option from the bench if he comes through that session. There are no suspension concerns for this match.
Liverpool Predicted Lineup
GK: Alisson
RB: Szoboszlai
CB: Konate
CB: Van Dijk
LB: Kerkez
CM: Gravenberch
CM: Mac Allister
AM: Wirtz
RM: Salah
LM: Gakpo
ST: Ekitike
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IMAGO / Every Second Media