As Anfield braces for a monumental clash this Sunday, tensions escalate further courtesy of Erling Haaland and Trent Alexander-Arnold. Liverpool lead the Premier League standings with 63 points, while Manchester City are positioned second, behind by just one point, with 62 points in 27 matches.
The highly anticipated showdown also marks the final time Jurgen Klopp faces Pep Guardiola in the English top-flight, signifying the end of an era, with the managerial duo sharing 21 trophies between them, with City securing 14 against Liverpool’s seven.
Ahead of the battle for supremacy in the title race between two football powerhouses, Haaland has responded to Alexandre-Arnold’s claims, which adds an extra layer of intensity building up to the top-of-the-table clash.
Alexander-Arnold, earlier this week, stated City may have won more trophies, but, Liverpool’s achievements are of more value when comparing the financial aspect of both clubs.
"Looking back on this era, although they’ve won more titles than us and have probably been more successful, our trophies will mean more to us and our fanbase because of the situations at both clubs, financially,"continued the Reds fullback
"How both clubs have built their teams and the manner in which we’ve done it probably means more to our fans."
Haaland wasted no time countering Alexander-Arnold's assessment, proudly highlighting his one-year tenure and the triumphant treble win.
The City marksman told Sky Sports:
"If he [Alexander-Arnold] wants to say that, okay. I’ve been here one year and I won the Treble. It was quite a nice feeling and I don’t think he knows exactly this feeling. He can talk as much as he wants. I don’t know why he does that, but I don’t mind."
"It’s going to be a great game. Liverpool are top of the league, so they’ve been the best this season so far. City–Liverpool is a really special game."
The Norwegian goal-machine also stated that Manchester City remain the constant in the talks for Premier League title discussions over the previous years.
Haaland ended by saying:
"Last year, we were in quite an interesting title race as well. Maybe some even put us a bit away from the title race at one point."
"That’s what’s so nice about the Premier League: there are so many [teams] who can win the league. In the last years it’s been Man City, and we’re going to try and do it again. It’s not going to be easy, but we are good."