Two of the Premier League’s heavyweights clash in a pivotal, top-three showdown as Manchester City host reigning champions Liverpool at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
The match marks a significant milestone for Pep Guardiola, who takes charge of his 1,000th game as a manager. His side sit second in the table, just one point ahead of a resurgent Liverpool. Both teams enter the fixture in strong form, having secured major victories in the Champions League midweek. City dispatched Borussia Dortmund 4-1, while Liverpool earned a hard-fought 1-0 win over Real Madrid.
Manchester City vs Liverpool – Match Preview and Team News
- Date: Sunday, 9 November 2025
- Kick-off: 16:30 GMT
- Venue: Etihad Stadium, Manchester
- Referee: Chris Kavanagh
- VAR: Michael Oliver
- Last Meeting: Manchester City 0-2 Liverpool, 23 February 2025, Premier League
Team News
Manchester City
Manchester City are expected to be without key midfielder Rodri for the visit of Liverpool, as Pep Guardiola is likely to rest the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner until after the international break due to a minor fitness issue. The hosts’ only long-term absentee is Mateo Kovačić (ankle). The attack will be led by Erling Haaland, who is just two goals away from becoming the fastest player in history to score 100 Premier League goals.
Liverpool
Liverpool’s squad has been boosted by the return of striker Alexander Isak to training, and he is in contention to face Manchester City, though he may lack match sharpness. However, Andy Robertson is a doubt due to fatigue and will be assessed. The Reds remain without goalkeeper Alisson Becker and defender Jeremie Frimpong, as well as long-term absentee Giovanni Leoni.
Form Guide
Manchester City
City start the game week sitting on second in the table, having won their last three games in all competitions and scoring 11 goals in the process. Their 3-1 league win over Bournemouth last weekend kept them just ahead of Liverpool. Guardiola’s side have been formidable at the Etihad, but they lost this exact fixture 2-0 last season, a result that proved crucial in Liverpool’s title win.
Liverpool
After a severe dip in form saw them lose four consecutive league matches, Liverpool have steadied the ship. They have won their last two games without conceding a goal, including a 2-0 league victory over Aston Villa last weekend. The champions, who sit third as the match week begins, will be looking for a third consecutive win over City, having also beaten them in the FA Cup semi-final last season.
Predicted Lineups
Manchester City predicted XI: Donnarumma; Nunes, Dias, Gvardiol, O’Reilly; Gonzalez; Cherki, Silva, Foden, Doku; Haaland
Liverpool predicted XI: Mamardashvili; Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Wirtz; Ekitike
How to watch Manchester City vs Liverpool?
The match will be broadcast live in the UK on Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Premier League, and Sky Sports Ultra HDR, with coverage starting at 16:00 GMT.
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