Manchester City and Liverpool face off at the Etihad Stadium to strengthen their Premier League title ambitions. Both teams aim to pressure table-toppers Arsenal with a crucial victory on Sunday.
Pep Guardiola's Manchester City, currently Arsenal's nearest rivals, have won six of their last seven games in all competitions. They also secured a Champions League win against Borussia Dortmund earlier this week.
Meanwhile, Liverpool, guided by manager Arne Slot, are in good form after consecutive wins against Aston Villa and Real Madrid in the last eight days.
Rodri is doubtful for Manchester City after missing the Champions League match against Dortmund. If he does not play, Nico Gonzalez is likely to start in midfield to shield the defense.
“Guardiola has suggested he will not start Rodri as Nico Gonzalez has shown he can step up in his absence.”
Mateo Kovacic is confirmed out due to an ankle injury that will sideline him for an extended period. Omar Marmoush and John Stones, who collectively earn £545,000 per week before bonuses, are expected to make the substitutes bench.
This match marks Pep Guardiola's 1,000th game as a manager, a significant milestone in his career.
Author's summary: Manchester City and Liverpool clash with title hopes on the line, as Guardiola approaches his 1,000th managerial match amid key injury doubts impacting both squads.