In the post-match press conference following Liverpool‘s lacklustre 1-0 defeat versus Brighton and Hove Albion, Jurgen Klopp revealed that Sadio Mane ‘might be available’ to face Manchester City this weekend. The Reds head coach said, “He (Mane) might be available for the weekend, I don’t know. He didn’t train with the team today. We will see.”
With Liverpool struggling to find consistency with their performances of late, Klopp needs all the help he can get ahead of this weekend’s season-defining clash at Anfield. Therefore, the possibility of having Mane back for this game will be a welcome boost for anyone associated with the Merseyside club.
Mane’s Form At Anfield This Season
The Senegalese speedster has experienced an up and down season with the Reds so far as he has struggled to bang in the goals regularly in the final third. He has featured in 28 matches for Klopp’s side this term, registering ten goals and five assists in all competitions.
Despite his inconsistency as far as his numbers are concerned in front of the opponent’s goal, Mane deserves a lot of credit for averaging 1.3 tackles, 0.5 interceptions, 2.7 shots, 1.5 key passes and 2.0 dribbles per game in the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League group stages this season. However, he can improve his accuracy when interchanging possession in the opposition half as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 76.9% in both those competitions (stats via whoscored).
What Are The Senegal International’s Best Attributes?
Mane is one of the quickest players in the Premier League and remains one of Klopp’s most potent weapons in the attacking third. He can often turn on the afterburners to dribble past his marker on the left flank to get to the byline and whip in some inviting crosses into the opponent’s penalty box.
The 71-time Senegal international has the ability to be a match-winner for his side as he has got the hunger to score goals when his team needs him the most. Plus, he has struck up a brilliant wing partnership with Andrew Robertson which has often seen Klopp rely on them to create chances from the left flank.
Mane Might Be Available Vs Man City: Big Boost For Klopp?
Mane has often played a key role in Liverpool’s recent wins over Man City, so having him back will be a massive boost for the Reds going into this weekend’s blockbuster showdown at Anfield. He can not only put a few dents to the Man City defence but also work hard in stopping them from building attacks effectively from the back. Mane can be a constant nuisance for Pep Guardiola’s defenders, so Klopp will be desperate to see his star winger win the race against time to be fit for this game on Sunday evening.
