Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the English Premier League match.
Manchester City
Manchester City might be content with a point depending on how the match develops. Pep Guardiola would be very unhappy if his players let slip an advantage established by Erling Haaland in the first half-hour of the last two home matches at Etihad Stadium. Bournemouth and Borussia Dortmund pulled one back, but in the second half the hosts forced them to defeat (3:1 and 4:1).
Liverpool
Liverpool had a very poor spell with six defeats in seven matches in all competitions, and the schedule added further difficulties. Before the international break, they had Aston Villa, Real Madrid and Manchester City on the list. It seemed unlikely they would get through without losses. The first two tests for Liverpool were passed and even won to nil, but those were at Anfield, where support is constant. What will happen when they are pressed aggressively both on the pitch and from the stands? At the very least, the visitors have lost four of their last five away matches — this underpins their slump.
Manchester City vs Liverpool Prediction
Another issue for Liverpool is an overcrowded infirmary. There are currently six players there, including goalkeeper Alisson Becker and forward Alexander Isak. Manchester City have only two on the sidelines: Mateo Kovačić and Abdukodir Khusanov. And with Rodri Hernandez there are always questions. In any case, the hosts are clearly stronger in attack right now.
