Liverpool vs Man City: Predicted Lineups Today & Confirmed Team News

Liverpool host Manchester City at Anfield on Sunday, February 8, 2026, in a crucial Premier League clash. With City sitting second on 47 points from 24 games and Liverpool on 39 points from 25, this top-of-the-table encounter promises fireworks amid defensive vulnerabilities and potent attacks.[5][1]

Liverpool Team News

Arne Slot's side continues their upturn in form but faces defensive shortages. Jeremie Frimpong (hamstring), Conor Bradley (knee), Giovanni Leoni (knee), and Alexander Isak (leg) remain sidelined, though Frimpong nears return.[2][4] Joe Gomez is back in training after a hip injury but unlikely to start, available as a substitute.[2][4] Ibrahima Konaté returns emotionally to the XI after recent scoring form.[1]

Dominik Szoboszlai shifts to right-back. Predicted lineup (4-2-3-1): Alisson; Szoboszlai, Konaté, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch [or Jones], Mac Allister; Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo [or Jones], Ekitiké.[1][2][3] Key performers include Hugo Ekitiké (10 goals), Mohamed Salah (5 assists), and Florian Wirtz.[5]

Manchester City Team News

Pep Guardiola welcomes back Rúben Dias and Marc Guéhi, the latter after missing midweek due to cup rules.[1][3] Out: Joško Gvardiol (defence), Mateo Kovačić (midfield), Savinho, and Jérémy Doku (wide)—a big loss after Doku's reverse fixture impact.[1] Erling Haaland is expected to lead despite competition from Omar Marmoush.[1]

Predicted lineup varies: (4-1-4-1) Donnarumma; Nunes, Khusanov, Guéhi, O'Reilly; Rodri; Semenyo, Reijnders, Foden, Cherki; Haaland[1] or (4-3-3) Donnarumma; Nunes, Dias, Guéhi, O'Reilly; González, Rodri, Reijnders; Cherki, Haaland, Semenyo.[3] Stars: Haaland (20 goals), Phil Foden (7 goals).[5]

Prediction

Both defenses struggle, but attacks thrive—expect a high-scoring thriller.[1] Liverpool seek home dominance; City aim to extend their lead.

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