Liverpool head to the Etihad Stadium with a golden opportunity to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League table to 11 points, following Arsenal’s surprise defeat to West Ham over the weekend.
Despite the recent 2-2 draw at Aston Villa, the Reds remain in a strong position, and Arne Slot has made a bold tactical decision for this crucial clash against Manchester City.
The Reds have not won a league game at the Etihad since 2015, but with City struggling this season, there’s no better time to break that streak. Slot’s side will be determined to seize the moment and take a giant step toward the title.
Arne Slot has opted for an intriguing setup, fielding four midfielders in a system designed to control the game and stifle City’s attacking threats. Curtis Jones takes up an advanced role on the left, joining Mohamed Salah and Luis Diaz in a fluid front three. Salah, in red-hot form with six goals in his last six appearances, will be the focal point of Liverpool’s attack.
In midfield, Ryan Gravenberch, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Alexis Mac Allister will look to dominate possession and provide the platform for Liverpool’s forwards to thrive. The backline remains unchanged, with Alisson protected by Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, and Robertson.
Liverpool Starting XI:
Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Szoboszlai, Mac Allister; Salah, Jones, Diaz.
Substitutes:.
Slot has a wealth of attacking talent on the bench, with Cody Gakpo returning from injury to join Diogo Jota, Darwin Nunez, and Federico Chiesa. Harvey Elliott and Wataru Endo offer energy and stability if needed, ensuring Liverpool have plenty of options to change the game.
A win at the Etihad would not only extend Liverpool’s lead at the top but also send a strong message to their rivals. With City’s struggles this season, the Reds have a rare chance to secure a statement victory on enemy territory.
