Liverpool Predicted Lineup vs Man City: Injury Concerns and Key Selection Decisions
Liverpool travel to the Etihad Stadium on Sunday for what could be a defining match in the Premier League title race. Arne Slot’s side remain unbeaten in the league, but with Arsenal chasing them down, this fixture carries enormous weight. Cody Gakpo’s availability remains uncertain, and his fitness could shape Liverpool’s attacking setup.
Gakpo’s Race Against Time
Liverpool are hopeful that Cody Gakpo will be fit after missing the last two games due to a knock sustained in the Merseyside derby against Everton. His absence has forced tactical reshuffles, with Luis Díaz stepping in against Wolves and Curtis Jones playing wide in the 2-2 draw with Aston Villa.
Speaking ahead of the trip to Manchester, Arne Slot was non-committal on the Dutch forward’s fitness. “Let’s see, let’s see. I hope. I am not 100 per cent sure. He hasn’t trained with the team yet, maybe he does a bit today. It will be a close call,” he admitted.
His availability will impact how Liverpool line up in attack, with Darwin Núñez, Luis Díaz, and Diogo Jota all options to lead the line if Gakpo is not deemed fit to start.
Defensive Adjustments Needed
The Reds are also dealing with a defensive injury crisis, with Conor Bradley set to miss at least two games after limping off against Villa with a hamstring issue. Joe Gomez and Tyler Morton remain sidelined, leaving Liverpool short of full-back options.
That means Trent Alexander-Arnold is expected to start, despite ongoing concerns over his minutes. His defensive ability will be tested, especially if Man City’s Jeremy Doku and Josko Gvardiol feature on his flank.
On the left, Kostas Tsimikas could be brought in to replace Andy Robertson. The Scotland captain has struggled against direct, pacey wingers, and Man City’s Savinho has been a key creative force in recent weeks. Slot may opt for a more defensive-minded approach to deal with the Brazilian’s threat.
Decisions in Midfield and Attack
Liverpool’s midfield is expected to remain unchanged, with Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch, and Dominik Szoboszlai providing balance and creativity. The bigger questions lie in attack.
If Gakpo starts, he is likely to play centrally, with Mohamed Salah and Szoboszlai supporting from the flanks. If he is unavailable, Díaz may be preferred through the middle, leaving a choice between Núñez and Jota to complete the front three.
Liverpool Predicted Lineup vs Man City (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper: Alisson
Defenders: Alexander-Arnold, Konaté, Van Dijk, Tsimikas
Midfielders: Mac Allister, Gravenberch
Forwards: Salah, Szoboszlai, Gakpo
Striker: Díaz
Doubts: Gakpo
Injured: Bradley, Gomez, Morton
Kick-off time: 4.30pm GMT, Sunday 23 February 2025
Venue: Etihad Stadium, Manchester
TV channel and live stream: Sky Sports
