Arne Slot will once again step in front of the cameras this Friday, just three days after Liverpool’s thrilling victory over Real Madrid. Consecutive wins have lifted the mood at Anfield as the Reds approach the final international break of the autumn, but before that pause, they face one of their toughest challenges yet — a trip to the Etihad.
Liverpool supporters have often endured difficult visits to Manchester City over the past decade. Even though City are not at their imperious best this season, their home record remains formidable. Slot, however, masterminded a clever tactical victory at the Etihad last year and will now look to repeat that feat in Pep Guardiola’s 1000th match as a head coach.
Like Liverpool, City also recorded a midweek Champions League victory. Both sides head into Sunday’s clash knowing that any dropped points could further widen the gap to league leaders Arsenal, who currently sit six points clear at the top of the Premier League table.
During his pre-match press conference, Slot is expected to address topics including the title race, team news, injuries, and his perspective on facing Manchester City.
Injury and Team Updates
Slot confirmed that Alisson Becker will not return until after the international break, while Jeremie Frimpong is also unlikely to be fit in time to face Nottingham Forest following the break.
The Liverpool boss praised Andrew Robertson’s recent performances, saying the experienced full-back has been calm in possession and strong defensively. Slot dismissed any concerns about Robertson’s age, noting that players like Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah continue to perform at the highest level beyond 30.
Discussing Dominik Szoboszlai, Slot highlighted the Hungarian’s growing influence, especially in recent matches against Aston Villa and Real Madrid. He praised Szoboszlai’s tireless off-the-ball work, which has reached “above his usual standards” in recent outings.
On Liverpool’s Recent Improvement
When asked what had changed to spark Liverpool’s upturn in form, Slot played down the idea that it was down to one specific area of the team. “Injuries have stopped me from keeping the same midfield three together for long,” he explained. “The more the team plays together, the better it gets. The performances against United and Villa were both strong — I preferred our play against United, but the result against Villa.”
On Facing Manchester City
Slot was under no illusions about the size of Sunday’s challenge. “Playing City away is one of the toughest games in any season,” he admitted. “We’ve been consistent lately — though sometimes consistently losing before! But this is a game in itself.”
He added that City’s predictable yet effective style makes preparation easier in theory but execution far more difficult: “They have very good players, and that’s what makes the challenge so big again.”
On Player Fitness and Selection
Slot revealed that Alexander Isak is set to resume full training ahead of the game. Robertson, who started three matches in seven days, was substituted against Madrid due to fatigue, and his availability for Sunday remains under evaluation.
As for Florian Wirtz, Slot noted the young midfielder’s versatility: “He can play off the left, which he did a lot at Leverkusen, or as a number 10 in a 4-3-3. What matters is getting him into positions where he can create and influence play.”
Focus on Consistency
Slot emphasized that his main focus remains on building consistency and keeping players fit. “We’ve lost more games than we usually do,” he admitted. “Our priority is to improve, stay consistent, and maintain fitness across the squad.”
Liverpool vs Manchester City promises to be another pivotal chapter in this season’s title race — and all eyes will be on Arne Slot to see if he can once again outsmart Pep Guardiola at the Etihad.
