Slot Could Stick With Winning Formula for Liverpoolβs Trip to the Etihad
Liverpool boss Arne Slot may resist making major changes to his starting XI as his side prepare for a tough visit to the Etihad Stadium, though Alexander Isak could return to the squad.
Isak Nearing Return From Injury
The Swedish striker has missed Liverpoolβs last four fixtures in all competitions after coming off at half-time during the 5β1 Champions League win over Eintracht Frankfurt due to a groin issue.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference on Friday, Slot revealed that Isak has a strong chance of being available against Manchester City.
βHeβll train with the group today for the first time after being out for three weeks,β Slot said.
βI know I mentioned before that his pre-season was basically finished, but after three weeks of rehab, heβs naturally not at the same level he was at before the injury. Our rehab team is excellent, but you canβt replicate proper match intensity or full team training during rehab.β
He added, βSo weβll need to be patient and give him time.β
Even if Isak is declared fit, he is unlikely to replace Hugo Ekitike up front and will probably start on the bench.
Mamardashvili Set to Start Again
With first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker ruled out, Giorgi Mamardashvili will continue in goal as he aims for a third consecutive clean sheet.
Slot has recently returned to a lineup similar to the one that won Liverpool the Premier League title last season. Andy Robertson has reclaimed the left-back role from Milos Kerkez, while Dominik Szoboszlai has slotted back into midfield.
Those decisions have paid off, with Liverpool looking revitalised in recent victories over Aston Villa and Real Madrid.
Possible Changes for a Tougher Test
Despite recent success, the challenge of facing an in-form Manchester City might prompt Slot to tweak his attack. Cody Gakpo could be brought in, which may see big-money summer signing Florian Wirtz drop out of the lineup.
Predicted Liverpool XI
Mamardashvili; Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Mac Allister, Gravenberch; Salah, Szoboszlai, Gakpo; Ekitike
Injured: Frimpong, Leoni, Alisson
Doubts: Isak
Kick-off: 4:30pm GMT, Sunday, 9 November 2025
Venue: Etihad Stadium
Coverage: Sky Sports
