This high-profile Premier League fixture returns to the spotlight as Liverpool host Manchester City at Anfield on Sunday, February 8, 2026, with both teams pushing for key points in a tightly contested title race.
Narrative: Anfield intensity vs championship control
This matchup brings contrasting philosophies to the fore. Liverpool’s attacking aggression and home pride meet Manchester City’s meticulous control and tactical precision.
Liverpool (6th, 39 pts): The Reds have shown mixed form this season, combining emphatic victories like a recent 4-1 win over Newcastle with frustrating inconsistency. At Anfield, they remain a dangerous side capable of beating top-flight opposition.
Manchester City (2nd, 47 pts): City arrive as one of the division’s most consistent performers. With strong numbers on the road and the firepower to punish mistakes, Pep Guardiola’s men are firmly in the hunt for the Premier League crown.
Team news & probable lineups
Liverpool
Injury concerns remain a theme for Liverpool, with several key players absent or doubtful. Manager Arne Slot may be forced to adjust his back line and midfield shape accordingly.
Probable XI (4-3-3): Alisson, Szoboszlai, Konaté, van Dijk, Kerkez, Gravenberch, Mac Allister, Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo, Ekitiké.
Hugo x VVD 📸 pic.twitter.com/B8Furq1HT7
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) February 5, 2026
Manchester City
City’s selection is built around balance and creativity, though they have rotated to manage their demanding schedule. Expect a midfield focused on possession and attacking transitions.
Probable XI (4-3-3): Donnarumma, Nunes, Guéhi, Dias, O’Reilly, Rodri, Semenyo, Reijnders, Foden, Cherki, Haaland.
Player to watch: Mohamed Salah
Few players define big Premier League nights like Mohamed Salah at Anfield. The Egyptian remains Liverpool’s primary attacking outlet, combining elite movement with ruthless finishing in high-pressure fixtures.
Against Manchester City’s aggressive defensive line, Salah’s ability to exploit half-spaces on the right and attack the far post could be decisive. Whether in transition or settled possession, Liverpool’s best moments are likely to flow through him—and if the Reds are to take points from this clash, Salah’s end product will almost certainly be central to it.
Посмотреть эту публикацию в Instagram
Key stats
| Stat | Liverpool | Manchester City |
|---|---|---|
| League Position | 6th | 2nd |
| Recent Form | WDLWW | DWWLW |
| Avg Goals per Game | 1.63 | 2.04 |
Liverpool vs Manchester City, betting tips
Match Result: Draw — 3.60 (1xbet)
This fixture has historically been tight. With both sides capable of taking control at different phases, a draw offers a sensible neutral prediction.
Total Goals: Over 2.5 — 1.70 (1xbet)
Both clubs rank among the league’s most attacking sides, and high-stakes clashes often produce multiple goals. Recent head-to-head trends also lean toward matches breaking the 2.5-goal mark.
Both Teams to Score: Yes — 1.50 (1xbet)
Both Liverpool and Manchester City regularly find the net, especially in fixtures featuring aggressive pressing or sustained possession from their opponents. Given their attacking profiles and recent scoring rates, BTTS looks strong.
