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A few months ago, Manchester City looked to have run away with yet another Premier League title, having amassed a significant lead at the top of the table.
Fast forward to April, though, and their lead has been cut to a single point, and the Citizens could even find themselves off of top spot if they lose their next game.
That is because they face second-placed Liverpool on Sunday, in a tie that will potentially decide who wins the title this term.
Both Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp will have plenty to think about ahead of kick-off on Sunday, and here we predict the XI that the Spaniard will choose to take on the Reds.
Goalkeeper
Ederson will once again start in goal for City, who have conceded fewer goals than any other Premier League side so far this term. The Brazilian, who will go head-to-head with his compatriot and international teammate Alisson in goal for Liverpool, will be hoping to nullify the likes of Mohamed Salah and Diogo Jota.
Defenders
In defence, Guardiola will most likely select John Stones to partner Aymeric Laporte, in the absence of Ruben Dias, who remains sidelined through injury.
On the right, Kyle Walker will expect to start his 20th league game of the season, with Joao Cancelo most likely to operate at left-back.
Kyle Walker’s pace could be crucial in keeping Salah and co. at bay
The pair have both impressed this season, Cancelo in particular, having registered five assists in the league. Oleksandr Zinchenko will likely be among the substitutes, along with Nathan Ake.
Midfielders
The middle of the park will likely be where the game is one and lost, and Guardiola’s selection could once again prove critical. Kevin De Bruyne is a certainty to start, and few would bet against him having a deciding impact on the match. The Belgian’s goal was enough to give City victory over Atletico Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 tie in midweek, and he will be on the lookout for another goal at the Etihad.
De Bruyne’s goal gave City a crucial first leg lead over Atletico
Next to him, Rodri will occupy the role at the base of City’s midfield. The Spaniard has been brilliant so far this term, and will provide protection for City’s backline. Ilkay Gundogan will be the most likely candidate to occupy the third midfield position, ahead of the likes of Fernandinho and Phil Foden, the latter of whom may be utilised elsewhere.
Forwards
Like Liverpool, City have an abundance of talent in all areas of the pitch, none more so than in attack. Guardiola’s choice of front line will be pivotal, although Bernardo Silva seems likely to start given his previous performances in big matches. The Portuguese can be deployed anywhere across the frontline, and could even be used as a false nine.
Either side of him, Phil Foden and Raheem Sterling are the most likely pairing to flank the middle man, although Riyad Mahrez will feel hard done by if he is benched.
Raheem Sterling will be hoping to make an impact against his former side
The English pairing have both been in fine form this season, scoring 17 league goals between them, and they will certainly give Liverpool’s back line plenty to think about over the course of the 90 minutes.
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