Manchester City will look to bounce back from their disappointing Champions League elimination when they host Liverpool in the Premier League on Sunday.
Pep Guardiola’s charges were impressive against Newcastle United last week and will hope to make it two league wins in a row when they face Arne Slot’s side.
Although Manchester City haven’t had the best of seasons, they remain firmly in contention for a top-four spot and they’ll be eager to win at home against the league leaders.
Paul Merson has now predicted how the Citizens will fare when they take on Liverpool in Sunday’s 4:30pm kick-off at the Etihad Stadium.
READ MORE: Jamie Carragher predicts whether Manchester City can qualify for the Champions League next season
Paul Merson reckons Manchester City will lose 3-1 to Liverpool
Chris Sutton wasn’t optimistic when it came to Man City’s chances against Liverpool and sadly Merson feels the same way.
Merson, writing on Sportskeeda, said Man City have “no chance” against Liverpool, backing the Reds to be too quick against the hosts.
“I think Liverpool will rip City apart here,” wrote Merson. “I can’t believe I’m saying this, but that’s just what I feel.
“City have no chance! If Liverpool fail to win, they will be extremely disappointed.
City looked extremely slow against Real Madrid and considering how Liverpool play, the Reds will be too quick for Pep Guardiola’s men.
“A win for Liverpool here would be the end of Arsenal’s title hopes. Once they beat City, I expect Liverpool to win against Newcastle and Southampton.
“Now that’s 13 points out of a possible 15 against arguably three of the top six teams in the league. That is champion mentality in my opinion.
“Prediction: Manchester City 1-3 Liverpool.”
Manchester City team news v Liverpool
Manchester City are still sweating on the fitness of Erling Haaland for Sunday’s Premier League clash against Liverpool.
Haaland was spotted holding his knee after landing awkwardly during the 4-0 win over Newcastle last weekend before coming off.
The Norway international was an unused substitute in Man City’s loss to Real Madrid in the Champions League, along with Kevin De Bruyne.
Meanwhile, John Stones could face an extended period out with a thigh injury and may even require surgery.
Fellow centre-back Manuel Akanji suffered an injury during the first leg of the Real tie and has since undergone surgery on an abductor injury.
Jack Grealish, Jeremy Doku and Mateo Kovacic are all in contention to start, while Oscar Bobb and Rodri are long-term absentees.
