Liverpool XI vs. Man City: Wirtz and Ekitike Force Slot's Hand as Injury Crisis Shapes Crucial Lineup
Liverpool claimed their inaugural Premier League win of the new year last weekend but now confront a formidable challenge as they seek consecutive domestic triumphs.
The commanding 4–1 victory against Newcastle United should have boosted the Reds' confidence before Manchester City's impending Anfield arrival, though another stellar showing will be essential to defeat the championship contenders.
Arne Slot's squad has displayed remarkable inconsistency throughout this campaign but remains capable of rescuing a disappointing season by establishing positive momentum over the coming months. Sunday's encounter represents a crucial examination of their potential.
Match Snapshot
Match Snapshot
Team News
Team News
Liverpool will remain without extended injury casualties Alexander Isak, Giovanni Leoni and Conor Bradley for Sunday's clash, while Jeremie Frimpong has been sidelined by Slot due to a groin problem picked up during the Qarabağ encounter.
More positively, Joe Gomez might feature in some role, with Slot optimistic about his squad return following three consecutive match absences.
Academy prospects Jayden Danns and Stefan Bajčetić remain unavailable for Liverpool.
Liverpool Predicted Lineup vs. Man City (4-2-3-1)
Liverpool Predicted Lineup vs. Man City (4-2-3-1)
GK: Alisson—This season has offered limited comfortable matches for Alisson, even during Liverpool wins. Facing City's talented offensive unit, the Brazilian must deliver his finest performance.
RB: Dominik Szoboszlai—With Frimpong and Bradley sidelined, Liverpool's versatile player should maintain his right-back role against some dangerous attackers.
CB: Ibrahima Konaté—A heartfelt Anfield homecoming last weekend produced an outstanding display and strike for Konaté, who must replicate such resolute defending against Erling Haaland and teammates.
CB: Virgil van Dijk—Haaland has seldom gotten the better of Van Dijk in past encounters, though the Dutchman's regression this season suggests a challenging matchup ahead.
LB: Milos Kerkez—Expected to face former Bournemouth teammate Antoine Semenyo, the Hungarian understands the effort required to contain the impressive Ghanaian.
DM: Ryan Gravenberch—City's midfield lacks its previous dominance but Gravenberch must still produce a polished display to neutralize players like Rodri and Tijjani Reijnders.
DM: Alexis Mac Allister—These matches highlight how much Liverpool misses Mac Allister's former confidence. The Argentine remains cautious despite occasional flashes of brilliance.
RW: Mohamed Salah—Salah has traditionally tormented City, netting 13 times in 24 encounters and contributing a goal plus assist in both previous season meetings. Yet this represents a transformed Salah.
AM: Florian Wirtz—Wirtz faced criticism following Liverpool's 3–0 loss in November's reverse meeting but seems ready to answer his critics once more on Sunday. The German has registered six goals and two assists across his last 10 appearances in all competitions.
LW: Cody Gakpo—The contributions of Wirtz and Hugo Ekitiké have eased some creative pressure from Salah and Gakpo, yet the Dutchman faces intense criticism for his substandard performances.
ST: Hugo Ekitiké—Ekitiké commanded attention alongside fellow goalscorer Wirtz last weekend, with an impressive rapid double increasing his Liverpool total to 15. The Frenchman will undoubtedly trouble City's shaky defense.