Liverpool vs Man City: Preview, team news and lineups

Liverpool will try to secure a significant win against Manchester City, as they aim to maintain the 2024/25 title. They had a 2-2 draw with Aston Villa recently, which has put them on alert with Arsenal chasing closely. They are set to face City today, followed by a crucial match against Newcastle United.

Liverpool has a poor record at the Etihad Stadium, not winning there since 2015 in the Premier League. However, they may be considered favorites because of Manchester City’s recent struggles. City lost to Real Madrid in the Champions League and a defeat on Sunday would drop them 20 points behind Liverpool, putting their top four position in jeopardy.

The match will take place at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester on Sunday, February 23. Kick-off is scheduled for 16:30 GMT, 11:30 ET, and 08:30 PT. Anthony Taylor will be the referee, with Stuart Attwell as the VAR.

Erling Haaland did not play against Madrid due to injury and might still be a doubt today. John Stones is confirmed out for two to three months due to a thigh injury. Rodri, Manuel Akanji, and Oscar Bobb are also long-term absentees. Kevin De Bruyne’s recent lack of playing time leaves his status uncertain for the match against Liverpool.

The predicted Manchester City lineup: Ederson; Lewis, Dias, Ake, Gvardiol; Gonzalez, Kovacic; Foden, Marmoush, Savinho; Haaland.

For Liverpool, Cody Gakpo might return after missing two matches due to injury. Conor Bradley is unlikely to play due to a recent injury. He will join Joe Gomez and Tyler Morton in recovery. Darwin Nunez is expected to be benched after a poor performance against Villa. Diogo Jota is likely to start, and Luis Diaz may return to the lineup.

Liverpool’s predicted lineup: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Diaz; Jota.