The biggest game in modern English football will take place on Saturday at the Etihad Stadium, as reigning champions Manchester City host Liverpool.
Liverpool are the only club to continually push Man City over the last six seasons in the title race.
A Stevie G special during #MCILIV in 2013 ⏪ pic.twitter.com/9v93DE8MXQ— Liverpool FC (@LFC) November 24, 2023
A Stevie G special during #MCILIV in 2013 ⏪ pic.twitter.com/9v93DE8MXQ
The Reds twice came up just short of winning the title but are back again this season, putting pressure on Pep Guardiola’s team.
Controversy already swirls around the fixture as it kicks off at 12:30 PM UK time on Saturday. It is the third straight Liverpool 12:30 kick-off following an international break.
Liverpool are heavy underdogs going into the match at the Etihad. The Reds are just one point behind Man City in the standings.
A loss wouldn’t eliminate Liverpool from the title race, but it would make it difficult for Jurgen Klopp’s side to overcome.
Manchester City cruised to a 4-1 win at the Etihad last season. The victory came after a 1-0 loss to Liverpool at Anfield earlier in the campaign.
Both matches were full of fire, as the teams went hellbent for leather.
The Cityzens had the edge in the last 10 head-to-head games against Liverpool, posting a record of 4W-3D-3L.
All three Liverpool wins came at Anfield or Wembley Stadium. Man City won their last two games versus Liverpool at Anfield.
Eight of the last 10 matches between these clubs saw over 2.5 goals. In addition, eight of the last 10 matches finished with both teams scoring.
Guardiola and Klopp met 28 times previously in their careers. Klopp holds a slight advantage in wins and losses, with 12W-5D-11L. In 25 matches coaching against Man City, Klopp has a record of 11W-6D-8L.
If there is one Premier League manager with a positive record against Guardiola, it is Klopp. However, the Etihad Stadium has been a graveyard for Liverpool’s dreams in recent visits.
Man City’s injury worries eased this week, with Erling Haaland and Rodri back in training. Both players will be key to City putting pressure on Liverpool. The opening 30 minutes should be electric at the Etihad Stadium.
Saturday’s game will also feature the two top scorers in the league. Haaland has 13 goals and Salah has 10 after 12 games. They are the only Premier League players with double-digit goals.