Jurgen Klopp recently endeared himself to his fans at Anfield even further by revealing how he turned down an offer to manage Manchester United a few years back but even though he was not ready for it, he could not do the same when Liverpool came calling.
This weekend’s match provides the German with another opportunity to further his fandom at Anfield when his team faces league leaders Manchester City. The task will not be an easy one however with the Citizens in unstoppable form and unbeaten in the league. Pep Guardiola’s men were 5-0 winners the last time the two sides faced each other with Liverpool ending the match with 10 men and a humiliating scoreline.
Klopp’s challenge will be even more difficult with Philippe Coutinho finally making his long-awaited move to Nou Camp this January. The Brazilian had been linked with a move to join Messi and company since last summer but Liverpool’s stubborn stance delayed the departure of the Brazilian. However, he has finally made his move leaving Klopp an important man short in his attack.
There are injury problems for Klopp to deal with as well with Daniel Sturridge unsure even though he is recovering from his illness and injury. Alberto Moreno who has recovered from his injury will continue training with the first team but will most certainly not start. With Jordan Henderson also unsure of a starting place, Klopp will have a real headache to pick his team.
Here is how he is expected to start Sunday’s game.
Formation: 4-3-3
Defence
Simon Mignolet is expected to keep his place as Klopp’s first choice in between the sticks. Young Joe Gomez is expected to start at right back with Moreno’s injury meaning that Andrew Robertson will start at left back. While Joel Matip is expected to be one of the centre-backs, there is a fifty-fifty call between Virgil Van Dijk and Ragnar Klavan to be his partner. However, if Klopp’s press conference was to be believed, Klavan could be the one poised to start.
Midfield
Emre Can is expected to be the holding midfielder with Henderson out and he will be supported by Adam Lallana and Georginio Wijnaldum going by Liverpool’s midfield options.
Attack
With Mohamed Salah cleared to play the big match, he will surely be the man up on the right-hand side with Sadio Mane on the left and Roberto Firmino up front, as the Brazilian waits for his disciplinary hearing.
