We preview Sunday’s highly anticipated Premier League showdown at the Etihad Stadium with our Man City vs Liverpool prediction. Can Pep Guardiola’s champions derail the Reds’ title ambitions?
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Manchester City vs Liverpool: Preview
After Wednesday’s 2-2 draw with Aston Villa, Liverpool hold an eight-point lead over Premier League title rivals Arsenal, though the Reds have played one more game.
With Arsenal hosting a struggling West Ham side on Saturday, Arne Slot will likely see that gap narrow before Liverpool face Manchester City on Sunday in one of their toughest remaining fixtures.
Liverpool’s midweek stalemate marked their second draw in three Premier League matches, following James Tarkowski’s stoppage-time equalizer in the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park.
Despite this dip in form, the Reds remain strong title favourites, with Opta’s supercomputer giving them an 84.7% chance of finishing top. Arsenal’s title hopes, however, have improved from 7.1% earlier this month to 15.2%, indicating momentum may be shifting toward the Gunners.
Liverpool’s recent performances have raised questions. In last week’s narrow 2-1 win over Wolves at Anfield, they failed to register a single shot in the second half—something that hadn’t happened in the Premier League since records began in 2003-04.
Remarkably, Liverpool have taken fewer shots than their opponents just four times in the league this season, with two of those coming in their last three games (10-16 against Wolves, 6-10 versus Everton).
They created ample chances at Villa Park, dominating the expected goals (xG) tally 2.51 to 0.67. However, their finishing let them down—most notably when substitute Darwin Núñez fired over from a golden opportunity worth 0.75 xG in the 69th minute.
Arne Slot’s side has undoubtedly felt the absence of Cody Gakpo, who limped off during the Everton clash and remains doubtful for Sunday’s fixture. Gakpo ranks second among Liverpool players this season—behind Mohamed Salah—in goals (16), total goal involvements (21), and shots attempted (72) across all competitions.
Salah continued his stellar form against Aston Villa, registering both a goal and an assist—the 10th time he’s achieved that feat in a Premier League match this season. His contributions have been vital, directly earning Liverpool 31 points— the most by any player in a single Premier League campaign since Jamie Vardy’s 32-point tally during Leicester City’s 2015-16 title-winning season.
The Egyptian’s record against Manchester City is equally impressive. He has been involved in 13 Premier League goals (eight goals, five assists) against Pep Guardiola’s side—more than any other player. Only Steven Gerrard (14) has contributed to more goals against City in the competition’s history.
Meanwhile, Manchester City will be eager to respond after their disappointing 3-1 defeat to Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League at the Santiago Bernabéu. Kylian Mbappé’s hat-trick sealed Guardiola’s first Champions League exit before the round of 16 in his 16-season tenure in the competition.
In the Premier League, Manchester City have rediscovered their form. Since Christmas, they have collected 17 points from eight matches (five wins, two draws, one loss), with only Liverpool and Arsenal amassing more in that period. This marks a significant turnaround from their previous eight-game stretch, where they managed just four points (one win, one draw, six defeats).
Last week’s emphatic 4-0 victory over Newcastle United was a return to the dominant performances fans have come to expect from City in recent years. The match also saw the league debut of Nico González, whom Pep Guardiola has dubbed a “mini-Rodri.”
González impressed with 100 completed passes—the second-most by a midfielder on their Premier League debut since records began in 2003-04. He also led the team with three tackles and won four of his five duels. City’s control was further underscored by the fact that Newcastle failed to register a single big chance, marking the first time this season City have achieved that defensive feat in the league.
Fellow January signing Omar Marmoush netted a 33-minute hat-trick against Newcastle United—the second-fastest by a Manchester City player in Premier League history, trailing only Kevin De Bruyne’s 24-minute treble against Wolves in May 2022.
However, neither González nor Marmoush made a significant impact in the midweek clash with Real Madrid, despite combining for a late consolation goal—González tapped in after Marmoush’s free-kick struck the woodwork.
With just six points separating five Champions League contenders ahead of Matchday 26, City still have plenty at stake. Liverpool would be wise not to underestimate them in this crucial encounter.
Manchester City vs Liverpool: Head-to-Head
After their 2-0 victory in December’s reverse fixture at Anfield, Liverpool aim to secure a Premier League double over Manchester City for only the third time, having previously done so in the 2005-06 and 2015-16 seasons.
The Reds have completed the league double over reigning champions on six occasions—more than any other team in Premier League history. These came against Blackburn Rovers (1995-96), Manchester United (2000-01, 2001-02, 2008-09, 2013-14), and Chelsea (2010-11).
However, City boast a strong home record against Liverpool, losing just once in their last 15 Premier League encounters at the Etihad Stadium (eight wins, four draws). Their sole defeat in that stretch was a 4-1 loss under Manuel Pellegrini in November 2015.
Manchester City vs Liverpool: Team News and Predicted Lineup
Manchester City – Team News
Manchester City remain uncertain about Erling Haaland’s availability for Sunday’s Premier League showdown against Liverpool.
Pep Guardiola’s side, eager to rebound from their early Champions League exit at the hands of Real Madrid, are focused on avoiding dropped points in the race for next season’s competition. However, Haaland’s participation at the Etihad Stadium is still in question. Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday, Guardiola admitted, “I don’t know yet. Tomorrow we will know.”
Concerns arose when the Norwegian striker clutched his knee after an awkward landing during City’s 4-0 win over Newcastle last weekend, prompting his substitution. Although Haaland traveled with the squad for the Champions League second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu, his absence from the starting lineup raised eyebrows. Guardiola later explained that Haaland wasn’t ready to feature.
Providing an update after the 3-1 defeat to Madrid, Guardiola wasn’t overly optimistic about the striker’s chances of facing Liverpool: “Erling tried to train after the incident against Newcastle, and while scans look fine, he still feels discomfort, especially when walking or climbing stairs. He told me he’s not ready.”
If Haaland is ruled out, January signing Omar Marmoush—fresh off a hat-trick against Newcastle—is the leading candidate to spearhead the attack. Kevin De Bruyne, having been rested for the past two games, could also be recalled.
In defense, John Stones was forced off early against Madrid and may face a prolonged spell on the sidelines, potentially requiring surgery. Nathan Ake is likely to partner Ruben Dias in his absence. Guardiola also faces a decision at right-back, with Matheus Nunes and Rico Lewis vying to replace Abdukodir Khusanov, who struggled against Vinícius Jr.
City are further hampered by injuries to Manuel Akanji, Rodri, and Oscar Bobb, while Jack Grealish, Jeremy Doku, and Mateo Kovacic are in contention to return to the starting lineup.
Manchester City – Predicted XI (4-2-3-1)
- Goalkeeper: Ederson
- Defenders: Lewis, Dias, Ake, Gvardiol
- Midfielders: Nico, Gundogan, Foden
- Forwards: Savinho, Marmoush, Haaland
Liverpool – Team News
Liverpool remain hopeful that Cody Gakpo will be fit for Sunday’s Premier League clash against Manchester City.
Gakpo has missed the Reds’ last two fixtures after picking up a knock during the Merseyside derby against Everton last week. In his absence, Luis Díaz filled the left-wing role and opened the scoring in the win over Wolves, while Curtis Jones was deployed out wide in Wednesday’s 2-2 draw with Aston Villa.
With Liverpool aiming to maintain at least their eight-point cushion over Arsenal at the top of the table in what could be a pivotal weekend in the title race, Gakpo’s potential return could prove vital.
Speaking ahead of the trip to the Etihad Stadium, Arne Slot provided an update on the Dutch forward: “Let’s see, let’s see. I hope. I’m not 100 percent sure. He hasn’t trained with the team yet—maybe he does a bit today—I don’t know exactly. It will be a close call.”
Defensively, Conor Bradley is set to miss at least the next two games after limping off with a hamstring injury against Villa, joining Joe Gomez and Tyler Morton on the sidelines. With no viable alternatives, Trent Alexander-Arnold is expected to retain his spot despite managing his minutes, potentially facing a stern test if Josko Gvardiol and Jeremy Doku start on City’s left flank.
On the opposite side, Slot may consider bringing in Kostas Tsimikas for Andy Robertson, given the Brazilian winger Savinho’s recent form and Robertson’s struggles against pacey, direct attackers this season.
The main selection dilemma lies in attack, contingent on Gakpo’s availability. If the Dutchman starts, Slot must decide who leads the line. Darwin Núñez, eager to bounce back after his costly miss against Villa, could be in contention, but Díaz may edge him out alongside Diogo Jota in the front three.
Liverpool – Predicted XI (4-2-3-1)
- Goalkeeper: Alisson
- Defenders: Alexander-Arnold, Konate, van Dijk, Robertson
- Midfielders: Mac Allister, Gravenberch, Szoboszlai
- Forwards: Diaz, Salah, Jota
Manchester City vs Liverpool: Prediction
Whether it’s fatigue, pressure, or a mix of both, Liverpool have shown signs of slipping in recent weeks. With Manchester City rediscovering their scoring touch at home, they seem poised to capitalize—at least to some extent.
Erling Haaland’s availability could be the deciding factor in whether the reigning champions can secure a positive result in Sunday’s highly anticipated showdown. A draw seems a likely outcome, one that could leave Liverpool glancing nervously over their shoulder in the title race.
Prediction: Manchester City 1-1 Liverpool
When and Where to Watch the Manchester City vs Liverpool? Broadcast and Streaming Details
The highly anticipated Premier League clash between Manchester City and Liverpool is set for Sunday, February 23, at the Etihad Stadium, kicking off at 10 pm. (IST). The match will be broadcast on the Star Sports Network for TV viewers, while online streaming will be available on JioHotstar, allowing fans to follow the high-stakes game on their preferred device. With a thrilling encounter anticipated at the Etihad stadium, supporters won’t want to miss a moment of this Premier League showdown.
FAQs
Will Cody Gakpo play against Manchester City?
Cody Gakpo remains a doubt for Sunday’s clash with Manchester City after sustaining a knock against Everton. Liverpool boss Arne Slot confirmed it will be a “close call” regarding his availability.
Is Erling Haaland fit to face Liverpool?
Erling Haaland’s participation is uncertain due to knee discomfort. Pep Guardiola said a final decision will be made after assessing him closer to the match.
How have Liverpool and Manchester City performed in recent Premier League matches?
Since Christmas, Manchester City have earned 17 points from eight games, while Liverpool aim to maintain their lead despite recent inconsistencies.
What’s at stake in the Liverpool vs. Manchester City match?
Both teams are vying for crucial points in the Premier League title race, with Liverpool looking to maintain their lead and City aiming to close the gap.
Which players could be key in deciding the outcome of the match?
Mohamed Salah, with 31 goal involvements, and Manchester City’s Omar Marmoush, fresh off a hat-trick, are potential game-changers. Haaland’s fitness could also be pivotal.
