A thrilling encounter is set for Anfield this Sunday as Liverpool prepares to host Manchester City. Both clubs will vie for crucial points that could significantly impact their respective seasons. While not engaged in a direct title fight, the stakes are high as both teams seek to recover from recent disappointing form.
Liverpool vs. Manchester City: Match Details
- Kick-off Time: Sunday, February 7 at 4:30 p.m. GMT (11:30 a.m. ET; 10:00 p.m. IST; 2:30 a.m. AEST on Sunday)
- Venue: Anfield, Liverpool
- Referee: Craig Pawson
- VAR: John Brooks
How to Watch
Viewers in the U.K. can catch the match on Sky Sports Main Event and Premier League channels. In the U.S., it will be streamed on NBC Sports. Fans in India can follow the action on JioHotstar, while those in Australia can watch on Stan Sport. Additionally, ESPN will provide live updates online.
Injuries and Team News
Both teams are dealing with significant injury concerns ahead of this crucial matchup.
Liverpool Injury List:
- Alexander Isak (F) – Ankle, OUT until late March
- Jeremie Frimpong (D) – Groin, OUT until March
- Joe Gomez (D) – Rib, OUT
- Conor Bradley (D) – Knee, OUT for the season
- Giovanni Leoni (D) – Knee, OUT for the season
- Stefan Bajcetic (M) – Hamstring, OUT, return date unknown
Manchester City Injury List:
- Rúben Dias (D) – Hamstring, DOUBT
- Josko Gvardiol (D) – Ankle, OUT until early May
- John Stones (D) – Muscle, OUT until late February
- Savinho (F) – Knock, OUT until late February
- Jérémy Doku (F) – Calf, OUT until late February
- Mateo Kovacic (M) – Ankle, OUT until early March
Matchup Expectations
Both Liverpool and Manchester City come into this game requiring a win for different reasons. Liverpool aims to improve their chances of finishing in the top four, while Manchester City seeks to keep pace with league leaders Arsenal.
Liverpool has performed well historically at home against City, having lost only once in their last 22 encounters at Anfield. In contrast, Manchester City looks to complete their first league double over Liverpool since the 1936-37 season after previously winning at the Etihad.
Key Player Insights
For Liverpool, Hugo Ekitike has emerged as a valuable asset, scoring consistently in the league. His contributions will be essential as Liverpool aims for a top-four finish this season. He has netted 10 goals in the Premier League and has assisted twice, demonstrating impressive form.
On the other side, Manchester City’s Erling Haaland has struggled against Liverpool, failing to score in his last three Premier League away matches at Anfield. As City navigates its second-half struggles this season, Guardiola will be keen on addressing issues in maintaining leads.
Conclusion
This Sunday’s clash at Anfield not only holds implications for both clubs’ fortunes but also showcases the talent and competitive nature of the Premier League. Expect an intense battle as Liverpool tries to bolster their top-four ambitions while Manchester City aims to stay within striking distance of Arsenal in the title race.
