The Premier League’s heavyweight clash between Liverpool and Manchester City kicks off at 4 PM today at Anfield. But both teams are navigating injury crises that could see up to 12 players sidelined. For Pep Guardiola (53) and Liverpool’s interim manager Arne Slot (45), this adds layers of complexity to an already high-stakes fixture.
Here’s the latest on the injury front:
Manchester City’s Injury Concerns
1. Ruben Dias (Centre-back, 26):
Recently returned in the Champions League draw against Feyenoord but remains doubtful for a starting role.
2. Mateo Kovacic (Midfielder, 29):
A groin injury picked up during international duty keeps the Croatian maestro sidelined for at least another month.
3. John Stones (Centre-back, 29):
The England international may feature but lacks full match fitness after his recovery from a hamstring injury.
4. Jeremy Doku (Winger, 21):
A thigh strain has ruled out the Belgian speedster, leaving Guardiola’s wide options thin.
5. Rodri (Defensive midfielder, 27):
Recovering from ACL surgery. On The Rest is Football podcast, he shared his optimism for a spring return in six to seven months.
6. Oscar Bobb (Winger, 20):
The promising Norwegian talent hasn’t played since sustaining a pre-season leg injury. Guardiola expects him back in January or February.
Liverpool’s Growing Injury List
1. Diogo Jota (Forward, 27):
Sidelined with a chest injury from last month’s win over Chelsea, the Portuguese striker is not expected to make today’s squad.
2. Alisson Becker (Goalkeeper, 31):
Despite training after a recent hamstring strain, Liverpool’s shot-stopper is unlikely to be risked.
3. Kostas Tsimikas (Left-back, 27):
Nursing an ankle injury, the Greek defender remains out of action.
4. Ibrahima Konate (Centre-back, 24):
The Frenchman suffered a knee injury against Real Madrid midweek. He reassured fans on Instagram:
“Recovery starts now. I’ll come back stronger, inshallah.”
5. Conor Bradley (Right-back, 21):
Limped off midweek after a knock, and assessments are ongoing. Slot commented:
“It’s not ideal, but we’ll know more soon.”
6. Federico Chiesa (Winger, 26):
The Italian remains in partial training sessions, with a full return still some weeks away.
High-Stakes Battle
Liverpool, perched at the top of the table, holds an eight-point cushion over Manchester City (4th). Guardiola’s side is desperate to snap their six-game winless streak. A win would not only restore momentum but also close the gap to five points, reigniting their title defense hopes.
Conversely, a Liverpool victory could widen the gap to 11 points, a potentially insurmountable lead for City. With Arsenal (2nd) hammering West Ham 5-2 yesterday, the Premier League title race is heating up.
Will Guardiola’s tactical mastery shine through, or will Liverpool’s relentless form overwhelm their injury-hit rivals? Anfield awaits the answer. The stage is set. Who will thrive under the pressure at Anfield today?
