Manchester City versus Liverpool at the Etihad was set up to be a title decider in April. But in reality, it’s far from it. It’s become nothing more than a dead rubber in July. Liverpool have already become Premier League champions and will receive a guard of honour on Thursday evening from the team that pipped them to it last season.
City host Champions Liverpool at 8.15 pm. Despite the game having little meaning, both managers will want to put a markdown for next season as both clubs will be fighting it out for the title once again next season.
Manchester City Host Premier League Champions Liverpool
Recent Form
Liverpool are unbeaten since the return of football, with a draw against their city rivals followed by an emphatic 4-0 win against Crystal Palace. Goals from Trent Alexander-Arnold, Mohammed Salah, Fabinho and Sadio Mané sealed the three points last time.
Manchester City have played four games since the restart, including huge victories against Burnley and Arsenal. But it was followed up by a narrow loss at Stamford Bridge which ultimately handed Liverpool the title. City did, however, get back on track with a dominant display against Newcastle United in the FA Cup.
City and Liverpool Head to Head
Liverpool won the reverse fixture 3-1 at Anfield in November, which put the Reds eight points clear at the top and well on their way to their maiden Premier League title.
City beat Liverpool in last years’ game in Manchester, with the goal from Leroy Sané proving the difference in last years unprecedented title race.
Team News
Joel Matip has been ruled out for the rest of the season with a foot injury he picked up in the Merseyside derby. The Premier League champions are also without their vice-captain James Milner who is also sidelined with a hamstring injury.
Manchester City will be without their star striker Sergio Aguero after he suffered a knee injury. Fernandinho is still suspended while Eric Garcia is a doubt due to the head injury he suffered against Arsenal.
PREDICTION
The game might not have the hype it would have had if there was a title race but with Liverpool crowned Champions and City comfortably second. 1-1.
Main Photo
