Liverpool’s projected line-ups for the clash with Manchester City include adjustments involving Cody Gakpo and Hugo Ekitike, as well as a tweak in formation.
After an encouraging run of form, Liverpool now face a major test of their development as they travel to the Etihad to take on Manchester City.
Back-to-back victories over Aston Villa and Real Madrid mean Arne Slot’s side arrive in Manchester full of confidence for this Premier League fixture, which is also their final match before November’s international break.
I was impressed by the starting side that defeated Real Madrid, but I also admired Arne Slot’s clever tactical approach that outwitted Pep Guardiola’s City back in February. So what’s the right move this time? Possibly a blend of both ideas.
A third straight win would be a strong signal that the slump—six defeats in seven games—is firmly behind them as they head into the most demanding part of the season following the domestic pause.
As always, Slot and his staff have major decisions to make about team selection. Our dedicated Liverpool writers have submitted their chosen line-ups for the trip to the Etihad.
Last season at the Etihad, Liverpool surrendered possession to Guardiola’s side but struck effectively on the counter-attack and from set plays, earning a 2–0 win.
On that day, Liverpool had just 33% of the ball but rarely looked like losing after scoring early. Slot’s choice to play without a traditional striker and instead use a ‘box’ midfield of Ryan Gravenberch, Curtis Jones, Alexis Mac Allister, and Dominik Szoboszlai has shaped my thinking for this match.
Florian Wirtz impressed on the left against Real Madrid on Tuesday, but I’m planning to use him as a false nine and restore Cody Gakpo to the side ahead of Hugo Ekitike.
It’s the only personnel change I’m making, but it represents a significant tactical adjustment—one that could be highly effective in transition and counter-attacking moments at the Etihad.
My selection:
Mamardashvili; Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Wirtz; Ekitike.
