Alan Shearer Predicts Man City vs Liverpool
Liverpool head to the Etihad with genuine momentum and a sense that this fixture can influence the early shape of the Premier League title race. Arne Slot’s side have taken sizeable steps forward in recent weeks, blending structure with attacking confidence, and their latest wins against Real Madrid and Aston Villa have placed them within striking distance of Man City. With Arsenal currently setting the pace, both Liverpool and City know the importance of avoiding any stumbles.
Recent history provides a backdrop worth noting. Liverpool have not lost in their last four meetings with Man City and have won the previous two matches. For a fixture that often shifts on tactical details, that run reflects more than chance. Slot’s team are increasingly comfortable imposing their rhythm even when away from Anfield.
Predictions Split Between Merson and Shearer
The pundit view ahead of this match has been far from unanimous. Paul Merson, writing in his Sportskeeda column, backed Liverpool confidently, forecasting a 3-1 win and highlighting the stability of Slot’s selections. He said: “Liverpool have found some confidence now. Arne Slot has also gone back to his best full-back pairing and midfield combination.”
Merson focused on the midfield configuration that has become the team’s reference point. “When you have Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai as your three in midfield against City, you have got to be the favourites.”
Alan Shearer, however, presented a counterpoint. Instead of a decisive outcome, he envisaged a draw and pointed to the dangers posed by Erling Haaland. Speaking to the Metro, Shearer said: “Liverpool like to play a high line which will suit Haaland, but they had so much more protection in midweek against Real Madrid and more of it last weekend.”
He added a reminder of City’s form: “They have to carry that on which will be tough with Man City in decent form and Haaland looks unplayable at the moment.”
Key Squad Updates Before Kick Off
Team news has added some intrigue to Liverpool’s preparation. Slot confirmed that Alexander Isak has resumed training, although he has not committed to including him on 8 November. Alisson and Jeremie Frimpong remain unavailable but are expected to return once the international break concludes.
Slot said: “Alisson for sure. And I expect Jeremie back after the international break as well because we play from November until March!”
He added a note of caution: “But I don’t expect Jeremie to be fully fit for Forest. But with Alisson, we expect this, yes.”
Andy Robertson’s status is less certain. Fatigue forced his withdrawal late in the Real Madrid match and Slot acknowledged the need to monitor him. He said: “Robbo started three games in seven days as he started against Crystal Palace. I had to take him off towards the end [versus Real Madrid]. I felt he was tired but we will wait to see where he is today.”
Outlook As Kick Off Approaches
This match sits at the intersection of form, tactics and availability. Liverpool have rediscovered defensive balance and attacking clarity, yet Man City still carry the weight of a champion that remains dangerous even when not at full fluency. With contrasting predictions from Alan Shearer and Paul Merson, the expectation is for a contest shaped by fine margins. Slot’s Liverpool have grown in stature, and this trip to the Etihad will offer another measure of how far they have come.
