Liverpool have been cautioned that Manchester City are “back to their best” as the two Premier League giants prepare to meet at the Etihad Stadium this weekend.
The Reds travel to Manchester for their final game before the international break, buoyed by consecutive wins over Aston Villa and Real Madrid. Arne Slot’s side appears to have rediscovered its rhythm after a difficult run that saw six defeats in seven matches.
However, City are also in red-hot form. Pep Guardiola’s men have scored seven goals in recent victories over Bournemouth and Borussia Dortmund, sending a clear warning to their title rivals ahead of Sunday’s showdown.
Erling Haaland, in particular, has been unstoppable. The Norwegian striker netted his 18th goal of the season in midweek against Dortmund — a remarkable tally after just 14 appearances.
Former Manchester City and Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves believes Guardiola’s squad has finally returned to the level that made them so dominant in recent years.
“I think Pep knows his team is getting back to its best,” Hargreaves told TNT Sports. “You can see it in the way they’re playing. With Haaland firing up front and players like Phil Foden and Rayan Cherki supporting him, they look full of energy again. Last season’s injuries, especially to Rodri, knocked their confidence, but now they’re building momentum.”
Hargreaves also believes that City’s resurgence could pose problems not only for Liverpool but for current Premier League leaders Arsenal as well.
“As great as Arsenal are, they haven’t done it yet. They’re getting closer, but the last team you want chasing you is this City side — they’ve been there and done it for years,” he added.
The clash between Arne Slot’s Liverpool and Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City promises to be a defining moment in the title race, with both clubs looking to enter the international break on a high
