Liverpool no doubt have a fine record against the top Premier League sides in recent times, but they are yet to face a side as expensive as the new look Manchester City, and it’s why Saturday’s clash would be another true test of the true quality of manager Jurgen Klopp’s men.
While the battle between 2 of football’s best coaching minds remains largely unpredictable, chances are the Reds could leave Etihad with a win.
Here are 3 reasons why:
Recent History
Pep Guardiola’s side have picked up just one win in their last eight meetings with Liverpool – a 3-1 success at home in 2014.
They managed to draw last season and were thoroughly schooled 4-1 in 2015.
The Reds appeared to have somewhat found a winning formula, which allows them to contain City to some extent.
From the look of things, it seems tiki-taka will struggle against high-octane football again.
Injury to captain Vincent Company
The Belgium international has been ruled out of Saturday’s game after picking up a calf injury during the international break.
The 31-year-old has played every minute of City’s EPL campaign this reason, and his absence would disrupt Guardiola’s defensive plans.
This is a blessing for Liverpool’s fearsome attacking trio.
City’s wastefulness in front of goal
2 wins and a draw look like a good result for both teams, but while Liverpool have strolled to theirs, City have struggled, with late wins and own-goals aiding their luck.
They have been wasteful in front of goal, scoring 4 times despite 52 attempts.
Liverpool have registered 8 goals in 55 chances, and the conversion rates of both sides could and should make all the difference at the Etihad.
