Jurgen Klopp is unlikely to make any noticeable changes as Liverpool take on Manchester City for their post-coronation at the Etihad on Thursday.
Liverpool are set to celebrate their first-ever Premier League title on Thursday as they take on Manchester City on Thursday. However, they could face stiff competition from Pep Guardiola’s men, who won’t just roll over for the coronation of their league rivals.
As a result, Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is most likely to come up with his strongest possible eleven as they look to do a double over the Sky Blues this season.
The German mastermind did confirm, in his online press conference, that he has no fresh injuries to deal with aside from Joel Matip. “No, not yet. The one with Joel you probably know and that’s all for the moment,” Klopp replied when asked about any new injury worries.
?? MATCHDAY ??
Another battle awaits. UP THE REDS! ✊ #MCILIV pic.twitter.com/SaLDDFfEVQ
— Liverpool FC (Premier League Champions ?) (@LFC) July 2, 2020
Matip’s absence means Joe Gomez should continue to start alongside Virgil van Dijk, at the heart of Liverpool’s four-man backline, with Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andrew Robertson operating as full-backs. The presence of a stable back four has been one of the club’s biggest assets this season.
In midfield, James Milner could be in contention to start, after missing out against Crystal Palace due to a hamstring problem. However, Klopp has normally preferred the trio of Fabinho, Jordan Henderson and Georginio Wijnaldum in big and important matches like these.
And these individuals could once again form the midfield of Liverpool’s 4-3-3. But at the same time, Milner could potentially make a substitute appearance in the second half, having been a crucial member of the club’s successes under Klopp.
Moving forward, Liverpool have a wealth of options in the attack. But, it’s the revered offensive trio of Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino who are likely to retain their places in the starting lineup. They will be keen on exposing the Manchester City backline, weakened by the potential absence of John Stones and the suspension of Fernandinho.
So essentially, Klopp is set to make no changes to the side that secured a 4-0 win over Crystal Palace last week. We could expect players like Alex-Oxlade Chamberlain, Milner, Divock Origi and Harvey Elliott to be subbed in later in the game as the manager looks to provide opportunities to fringe players after sealing the Premier League title.
However, this game is sure to revolve around the success Klopp has had during his time at Anfield. And securing the Premier League crown will certainly become one of his biggest achievements not just at Liverpool, but also in his managerial career.
Liverpool Predicted XI: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Gomez, van Dijk, Robertson; Henderson, Fabinho, Wijnaldum; Salah, Firmino, Mane
