Liverpool’s trip to the Etihad Stadium to face Man City this weekend promises fireworks — but both teams could be forced to reshuffle their packs before the first whistle.
With six players reportedly doubtful, the Premier League’s biggest showdown could see a few unexpected names on the team sheets.
Both Liverpool and Manchester City are chasing Arsenal in the title race, and Sunday’s clash could prove vital.
But as the tension builds, injuries have taken center stage. Pep Guardiola’s City are sweating over key midfielders, while Arne Slot’s Liverpool are dealing with problems across the pitch — including a huge absence in goal.
Guardiola cautious with Rodri fitness
City boss Pep Guardiola confirmed that midfield star Rodri is unlikely to feature. The Spaniard has struggled for full fitness and Guardiola admitted he won’t take unnecessary risks with the “Ballon d’Or winner from two seasons ago,”.
“We’ll see tomorrow but I think we won’t take the risk with the international break,” Guardiola said. “We have to wait for the time when he feels strong and fit.”
With Mateo Kovacic also out, the City midfield could be patched up again with Nico Gonzalez, who has been in impressive form recently.
For City, the injury list is shorter — but the names are heavyweights.
Liverpool dealing with deeper concerns
Liverpool’s injury picture looks far more complicated. First-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker remains sidelined and won’t feature at the Etihad.
The Brazilian is, however, expected to return after the international break for the match against Nottingham Forest.
Forward Alexander Isak, who missed recent games with a groin issue, returned to training late in the week. He could reportedly make the bench, but his involvement is still uncertain. Arne Slot hinted that Isak’s fitness will be closely monitored before kickoff.
Wing-back Jeremie Frimpong remains out with a hamstring problem, while Giovanni Leoni is a long-term absentee after a serious knee injury that will keep him out for the rest of the season.
That makes it potentially six players — four for Liverpool and two for City — who could miss the blockbuster fixture.
Arne Slot staying calm amid chaos
Despite the setbacks, Arne Slot seemed focused and upbeat ahead the big Premier League test at the Etihad.
“It’s always worth watching because so many great individuals are playing that game,” Slot said. “When you’re not part of it, you still look forward to it.”
The Dutchman praised Pep Guardiola’s style too:
“With Pep, 10 out of 10 times you get what you are hoping for — a great game of football.”
But behind the calm words, the Reds boss knows his team will need to be at their best. Facing Erling Haaland and company without Alisson between the sticks is a daunting challenge, especially away from home.
The bigger picture
Liverpool’s title chase won’t be defined by one game, but this fixture could send a message. The Reds are behind Man City and Arsenal in the table, and a win would take them just 5 points behind the league leaders jumping on to 2nd in the table.
Both sides have the quality to deliver a classic — even if a few stars have to watch from the sidelines.