Paul Merson has now shared some thoughts on Saturday’s Premier League clash between Manchester City and Liverpool at the Etihad Stadium.
The 55-year-old was writing for Sports Keeda.
So, what did Paul Merson write about Manchester City and Liverpool? Let’s take a look…
What’s the story?
Well, before the Sky Sports pundit even started to share his prediction for Saturday’s clash, he criticised the timing.
Merson wrote: “What a game to start off the weekend, although we didn’t need this one to be an afternoon kick-off. I worry about it because it’s not exactly fair to all the players who were away on international duty.”
The Arsenal legend makes a good point about the unusual timing of this clash – although the Premier League were backed into a corner by local stakeholders, including the police, it seems.
Getting onto Merson’s prediction, the man from Harlesden believes Manchester City will just about edge Jürgen Klopp’s side to pick up all three points with a 2-1 win.
He continued: “If Haaland is fit, then I think City edge this. I think there will be goals in this one. Both managers play an attacking brand of football. However, it’s tough to go against City at home.
“Liverpool have shown that they can be really shaky when they come back after the international break. I remember them getting blown away in the first half of that game against Wolverhampton Wanderers under similar circumstances.
“Considering everything, I predict a narrow home win for Manchester City against their title rivals.”
Manchester City favourites to beat Liverpool
Merson is not the only popular pundit to back Manchester City.
Simon Jordan also tipped Pep Guardiola to beat Klopp when speaking on talkSPORT, saying: “I would expect Man City to win this one.”
Additionally, Roy Keane thinks Manchester City will overcome Liverpool, even if Erling Haaland is unable to feature – the Norway international is a doubt due to a foot injury.
While the Reds boast a number of the Premier League’s best players and are in strong form, we are also expecting Manchester City to win this clash – especially at the Etihad Stadium.
