Paul Scholes and Roy Keane have offered contrasting predictions ahead of Liverpool’s huge Premier League clash with Manchester City on Sunday.
The Reds could leapfrog Pep Guardiola’s side into second place if they repeat last season’s win at the Etihad. They may also have a chance to cut Arsenal’s lead, should the Gunners slip up away to in-form Sunderland a day earlier.
After a disastrous spell of six defeats in seven matches, Arne Slot’s men have reignited their season with impressive victories over Aston Villa and Real Madrid. However, City head into this game in fierce form, with eight wins in their last 10 across all competitions.
On the Stick to Football show, pundits shared their predictions for the weekend fixtures — and most backed a Manchester City win. With his Arsenal loyalties in mind, Ian Wright said: “A draw would be good, but I think City will win,” with Jill Scott and Roy Keane agreeing.
Gary Neville couldn’t pick a winner, but Scholes — who recently claimed Liverpool are “a better team than Real Madrid” — was more confident: “I have a massive feeling. Liverpool are better. 2–1.”
A week ago, this trip to the Etihad looked daunting for Liverpool, but two huge results over the past six days have injected the belief they needed ahead of one of the Premier League’s most eagerly awaited fixtures each season.
If Slot’s side can repeat last year’s result, it would feel like a real turning point after a miserable October. But they’ll need the entire team — especially the defence — to be at their absolute best.
And of course, they must deal with Erling Haaland, who is in frightening form. His strike against Dortmund on Wednesday was his 27th goal of the season for club and country since August. The Norwegian has only failed to score twice this season — and City lost both matches, failing to register a goal (via Transfermarkt).
Containing him will be essential for Liverpool, but having kept Kylian Mbappé quiet in midweek, Slot’s men won’t shy away from the challenge.
Liverpool must be close to perfect to win on Sunday, but their recent resurgence means they travel to Manchester with genuine belief that they can grab another huge three points.
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