The clash between Liverpool and Manchester City at Anfield this afternoon carries significant weight despite there being more than two months remaining in the 2023-24 Premier League season.
In the red corner, we have Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool, currently topping the table and riding a wave of momentum with 14 wins from their last 16 matches across all competitions. Their pursuit of a historic quadruple is fueled further by the impending departure of their emotional manager in the summer.
In the blue corner, Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City stands just a point behind Liverpool, aiming for a fourth consecutive title and boasting the pedigree of last season’s treble winners.
Meetings between these two giants of English football are always intense and of the highest quality. But how do we anticipate today’s encounter to unfold?
We’ve gathered insights from a panel of Athletic experts to delve into the crucial questions surrounding this fixture.
Does this match determine the title race?
Oliver Kay: No, it doesn’t. Despite the focus on Liverpool and Manchester City, we can’t overlook Arsenal’s presence in the title race. While today’s result may shift the odds, both Liverpool and City aren’t as dominant as they were in previous seasons. Expect more twists and turns in the coming months.
Daniel Taylor: Not decisively, but a victory for City at Anfield, followed by a win over Arsenal, could certainly feel like a turning point in the title race.
Sarah Shephard: With Arsenal still in contention and facing City later in the month, it’s premature to say this game will decide the title. The match against Arsenal could hold more significance depending on today’s result.
Carl Anka: It’s a significant match, especially considering City’s historically poor record at Anfield. However, Arsenal’s presence in the race adds another layer of complexity.
Nick Miller: No, primarily because Arsenal is also in the mix. Even if Liverpool wins today, City is more than capable of closing the gap.
Which individual battle are you most anticipating?
Kay: Virgil van Dijk versus Erling Haaland stands out for me. Both players are imposing figures capable of dominating opponents. Van Dijk’s performance against Haaland last season was exceptional, and he’ll need to be at his best again today.
Taylor: Phil Foden’s form makes his duel with Andy Robertson intriguing. Additionally, the potential matchup between Mohamed Salah and City’s defense could be pivotal.
Shephard: While Jeremy Doku’s battle with Trent Alexander-Arnold would have been captivating, Van Dijk against Haaland promises to be a clash of titans, given their recent form.
Anka: I’m looking forward to seeing how Rodri and John Stones handle the threat posed by Alexis Mac Allister and Wataru Endo. The attacking runs of City’s duo have added a new dimension to their game.
Miller: Foden’s form makes him a key player to watch, especially against Liverpool’s midfield. However, several other matchups, including Haaland versus Van Dijk, promise excitement.
Which team is the most entertaining when at their best?
Kay: While both Liverpool and City have had memorable seasons in recent years, I find the previous iterations of both teams more captivating in terms of speed and fluidity.
Taylor: Liverpool’s rapid counter-attacks make them slightly more thrilling to watch, reminiscent of Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal sides.
Shephard: Liverpool’s style often keeps viewers on the edge of their seats compared to City’s controlled approach, which can sometimes lack the unpredictability of the game.
Anka: This season’s City may maintain their imperious form, but Liverpool’s dynamic play, particularly with their prolific striker Darwin Nunez, provides more excitement.
Miller: Personally, I prefer Liverpool’s chaotic style over City’s controlled approach, making them the more enjoyable team for me.
Who would you rather have a drink with, Klopp or Guardiola?
Kay: While both managers offer unique experiences, Klopp’s liveliness and enthusiasm would make for an entertaining evening, albeit with some unpredictable moments.
Taylor: Guardiola’s insights, especially regarding his experiences with Lionel Messi, would be intriguing, despite his reserved demeanor.
Shephard: Depending on the context, Guardiola might offer deeper insights, while Klopp’s joviality could make for a more relaxed conversation.
Anka: Guardiola’s tendency to drift back to football-related topics might limit the conversation, making Klopp the preferred choice for a casual chat.
Miller: Klopp would be the obvious choice for a lively evening, but spending time with Guardiola could offer interesting insights into his unique perspective.
Which manager do you believe will leave a greater legacy in English football?
Kay: While both managers will leave significant legacies, Guardiola’s influence on the tactical approach of English football, particularly in terms of playing out from the back, is remarkable.
Taylor: Guardiola’s impact on the tactical landscape of English football, evident even in lower divisions, solidifies his legacy as the more influential figure.
Shephard: Guardiola’s innovations and City’s dominance under his management position him as the manager likely to leave a lasting legacy in English football.
Anka: Despite Klopp’s admirable philosophy, Guardiola’s tactical influence and widespread adoption of his methods make him the more influential figure.
Miller: While Klopp’s charisma is memorable, Guardiola’s tactical innovations and widespread influence on coaching techniques make him the manager with a greater legacy in English football.
What’s your favorite moment from the Liverpool-City encounters in the Klopp-Guardiola era?
Kay: Personally, Sadio Mane’s goal at Anfield, while surrounded by his family and friends in Senegal, stands out as a memorable moment.
Shephard: John Stones’ goal-line clearance in January 2019 symbolized the fine margins between the two teams and remains a significant memory.
Taylor: Stones’ goal-line clearance, given its impact on the title race, is a standout moment in City’s recent history.
Anka: As a Manchester United supporter, I refrain from picking favorites, but Stones’ clearance is a memorable moment that highlights the intensity of these encounters.
Miller: Guardiola’s passionate reaction to perceived injustices during a match in November 2019 encapsulates the intensity and drama of Liverpool-City clashes.
Predictions for today’s match?
- Kay: 2-2
- Taylor: 2-2
- Shephard: 2-2
- Anka: 2-2
- Miller: 2-1 in favor of Liverpool.
Today’s Liverpool vs Manchester City match has the potential to shape the Premier League title race, and The Athletic is committed to providing a comprehensive analysis of every aspect of the encounter.
