Liverpool vs Man City: Match Preview, Latest Team News and How to Watch | OneFootball

Liverpool vs Man City Preview, Kick Off Time, Team News and Prediction

Anfield Stage Set for Heavyweight Clash

Liverpool welcome Man City to Anfield on Sunday in a fixture that carries consequence at the top of the Premier League. 

Arne Slot’s side continue their pursuit of a top four finish following an inconsistent title defence. Momentum, however, has flickered back into life. Convincing victories over Qarabag and Newcastle United have restored belief, and perhaps rhythm.

Liverpool struck ten times across those matches. A 6-0 Champions League dismantling of Qarabag secured automatic passage into the knockout rounds, before a stirring 4-1 comeback win over Newcastle in league action. Results elsewhere mean the reigning champions sit sixth, nudged down by late wins for rivals, but confidence inside Anfield has lifted.

Guardiola’s Side Chasing Title Pace

Man City arrive with different calculations. Pep Guardiola’s team remain locked in the title race, though recent stumbles have complicated the equation. A 2-2 draw away to Tottenham saw City surrender a two goal advantage, a reminder that even serial winners can wobble.

There was, though, reassurance in midweek. Progression to the Carabao Cup final was secured with a controlled semi final victory over Newcastle at the Etihad Stadium. Guardiola rotated heavily, preserving energy for the trip to Merseyside.

Photo: IMAGO

Six points separate City from league leaders Arsenal, leaving little margin for error. Encounters with Liverpool have often shaped title outcomes in recent years, and this one carries similar weight.

Injury Concerns Shaping Selection

Liverpool’s preparations have been disrupted by defensive absences. Ibrahima Konate returned from compassionate leave against Newcastle and marked the occasion with a goal, having missed three matches following the passing of his father.

His return eased immediate strain, with Virgil van Dijk previously the only senior centre half available after Joe Gomez’s injury against Bournemouth. Slot has suggested Gomez could return to training, though not in condition to start.

Giovanni Leoni remains sidelined with an ACL injury, while Alexander Isak is out with a broken leg suffered before Christmas. At right back, both Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong are long term absentees, forcing further reshuffling.

City’s defensive line has also been tested. Ruben Dias has returned to the squad after a hamstring injury sustained on New Year’s Day, though he did not feature in the win over Newcastle. Josko Gvardiol faces months out with a broken leg, joining Mateo Kovacic on the sidelines.

Pep Guardiola confirmed Savinho remains “stuck” with a hamstring issue and will be absent for “weeks”, while Jeremy Doku has not trained. Bernardo Silva missed the midweek tie but, according to Guardiola, he “felt good” and “wanted to try it out”.

Kick Off Time, TV and Live Stream Details

Liverpool vs Man City kicks off at 4.30pm GMT on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at Anfield. UK viewers can watch live on Sky Sports Main Event, with coverage starting at 4pm GMT. 

Score Prediction

With both Liverpool and Man City managing defensive injuries, the contest could open up into an expansive encounter. Firepower exists on both sides, and recent form suggests goals.

Prediction: Liverpool 2-2 Man City.