Updated by FFRNews on November 8, 2025
The Manchester City vs Liverpool Team News has generated excitement among Premier League fans as both sides prepare for a crucial clash at the Etihad Stadium. With league leaders Arsenal threatening to pull away, Pep Guardiola’s City and Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool are desperate for a win to maintain their positions near the top of the table.
Premier League Context and Stakes
Sunday’s matchup is more than just another fixture; it could signal which of the two clubs is better equipped to chase Arsenal, who visit Sunderland on Saturday and could extend their lead to 10 points. City currently sit third, while Liverpool are second in the league, making this encounter a high-pressure showdown before the international break.
City come into the game on the back of a 4-1 Champions League victory over Borussia Dortmund, where Erling Haaland scored his 18th club goal of the season, supported by a resurgent Phil Foden, who bagged a brace. Liverpool, after a challenging run with six defeats in seven matches, recently defeated Aston Villa and Real Madrid, signaling a return to form.
Pep Guardiola ‘Desperate’ for the Clash
Guardiola expressed his eagerness for the match, noting the competitive nature of City’s rivalry with Liverpool in recent seasons.
“Of course, but sometimes it’s about momentum,” Guardiola said. “All the clubs are there except Arsenal, who are more consistent than anyone. But the season is long, so we try to be there and see what happens. I’m so excited and happy to prepare for Sunday. I’m desperate to play against Liverpool.”
Phil Foden Returns to Form
Foden, England international and City academy graduate, has overcome last season’s injuries and off-field challenges. His performance against Dortmund demonstrated that he is back to his best, making him a crucial player for City against Liverpool.
“Phil is back,” Guardiola said. “We miss this a lot last season but this season I think he is going to help us a lot. He’s a special player, and we need his goals for the big, big match on Sunday.”
Liverpool Defensive Strategy
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk emphasized the importance of building from the back as the team attempts to maintain consistency.
“It is easy to say now because we won twice in a row. In a world of chaos you have to stay calm and see perspective of things,” Van Dijk stated. “We all know how football works – it can change overnight. Sunday is going to be another difficult one.”
Manager Insights: Arne Slot
Liverpool manager Arne Slot praised his squad’s recent performances but acknowledged that facing City will be a far greater challenge.
“Our main focus is on consistency at the moment. These are the few games everyone is looking forward to, similar to the ‘Clasico,’” Slot said. “What I like about Pep Guardiola’s teams is that 10 out of 10 times you get what you are hoping for – a great game of football.”
Head-to-Head Record
Historically, Liverpool have the upper hand in their 218 meetings, with 110 wins compared to City’s 60, and 58 draws. Last season, Liverpool completed a league double over City, including a 2-0 win at the Etihad. City’s last victory against Liverpool was a 4-1 win in April 2023, a match remembered for its intensity and fan-related incidents.
Manchester City Team News
City have a nearly fully fit squad, with midfielder Rodri likely returning to form a double-pivot alongside Nico Gonzalez. Left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri has recovered, but Nico O’Reilly may retain his spot to defend against Mohamed Salah.
Predicted City Lineup:
Donnarumma; Nunes, Dias, Gvardiol, O’Reilly; Rodri, Gonzalez; Cherki, Foden, Doku; Haaland
Liverpool Team News
Liverpool remain without first-choice keeper Alisson Becker, with Giorgi Mamardashvili set to start. Alexander Isak may be fit but is unlikely to be risked, while Curtis Jones has returned to training. Right-back Conor Bradley impressed midweek and will likely start, with Andy Robertson at left-back as new signing Milos Kerkez adjusts.
Predicted Liverpool Lineup:
Mamardashvili; Bradley, Konate, van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Wirtz; Ekitike
Key Battle: Haaland vs Van Dijk
Sunday’s clash will prominently feature the duel between Manchester City striker Erling Haaland and Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk. Haaland has scored 26 goals this season, and Liverpool’s defensive organization will be tested to the fullest.
The Manchester City vs Liverpool Team News sets the stage for one of the most anticipated matches of the Premier League season. Both sides are eager to maintain momentum, with key players returning to form and managerial strategies in focus. Fans can expect a high-intensity encounter at the Etihad that could shape the race for the top spots in English football.
This report is based on information originally published by Al Jazeera, with additional analysis and context provided by FFR
