Manchester City and Liverpool meet each other for the first time this season - Source: Getty
Manchester City and Liverpool meet each other for the first time this season - Source: Getty
Manchester City fans were left surprised after Enzo Maresca named his starting XI for Sunday's Premier League showdown against Liverpool, with Jeremy Doku among the notable absentees from the line-up.
The Belgian winger, who was one of City's standout performers during the 5-3 win over Sunderland the last time, was named on the bench for the trip to Anfield. His omission quickly sparked debate among supporters, many of whom believed he had done enough to earn a starting spot in one of the biggest fixtures of the season.
The supporters took to social media to question Maresca's decision, arguing that Doku should've been the first name on the teamsheet. Some even admitted that they were shocked to see the Belgian on the bench as his pace and ability to beat defenders would have been crucial against Liverpool.
Below is the starting line-up and some of the top reactions culled from City fans on X (formerly Twitter).
@ManCity @OfficialFPL @etihad It’s stupid not to start with Doku,but also him coming on after they are all tired might be good,man he should still have start…
Other than Doku on the bench I'm very happy with that team, Maresca's been brave and is going for it. It feels a bit weird to go into a big game without some kind of galaxy brained move.
Despite the criticism, Maresca still has the option of introducing Doku from the bench if Manchester City need an attacking spark during the contest. The 24-year-old has established himself as one of the club's most dangerous wide players, and supporters will be hoping he can make an impact if called upon at Anfield.
Since joining Manchester City in the summer of 2023, Jeremy Doku has made 133 appearances for the club across all competitions, recording 22 goals and 34 assists to his name. It remains to be seen if he will get some minutes at Anfield today.
How Liverpool and Manchester City have fared in the Premier League so far this season
The two clubs have had a slightly contrasting spell in the Premier League so far this season. While Manchester City have been at the top of their game and currently sit atop the table, the Reds' run in the English top flight has been full of ups and downs, and they currently occupy the eighth position in the table.
Andoni Iraola's men have picked up just nine points in the Premier League after winning two and drawing three of their five games so far. They've also scored seven goals and conceded four in the process, leaving them with a +3 goal difference.
Manchester City, on the other hand, have maintained a 100% start to the season, winning all of their five matches and securing 15 points in the process. Enzo Maresca's men have bagged 13 goals and conceded five. Should they beat Liverpool, the Cityzens will go three points clear at the summit of the table.