The Crystal Ball: Manchester City vs. Liverpool
By Taylor Smith
PREDICTED LIVERPOOL STARTING XI: Alisson (GK); Alexander-Arnold, Matip, Gomez, Robertson; Henderson, Wijnaldum, Shaqiri; Mane, Salah, Jota. Formation: 4-3-3
The biggest decision for Klopp lies in defense, where Matip will be given the nod. Since returning to training early in the week, Matip was fit enough to make the bench in Liverpool’s 5-0 dismantling of Atalanta in the Champions League.
He didn’t play in that game, so he’ll get an additional four days to prove his fitness ahead of this clash with Manchester City. Hopefully, he can stay on the pitch for the full 90. The rest of the defense will be Klopp’s tried-and-true boys.
In midfield, Jordan Henderson gets the start as his experience and leadership will be needed in a game of this level. Wijnaldum will start as well because he typically raises his game when facing elite opposition and has been exceptional in his most recent appearances.
The surprise selection comes in the shape of Shaqiri who has been a match-winner when given space to roam in the center of the park and pick a pass. He’s something of a liability in defense, although he’s improved this part of his game. Shaqiri also gives Klopp some tactical flexibility if he decides to move to 4-2-3-1 at any point.
After Diogo Jota’s stunning performance in the Champions League where he bagged his first hat-trick for his new club, Roberto Firmino will have to be content with a place on the bench. Jurgen Klopp told reporters recently that Firmino has “played what feels like 500 games in a row,” but that his star striker isn’t in danger of losing his spot permanently.
If Roberto Firmino doesn’t start, he will almost certainly come off the bench at some point, because his ability to press defenders and cause mistakes is second to none.