Redaction Willow Austin with Harry Winters
Published on 2024-03-10 15:38:30
In preparation for Sunday’s highly anticipated Premier League match against Liverpool, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has made a surprising decision to name centre-back Ruben Dias on the bench. The reigning treble-winners are set to face off against their rivals at Anfield with hopes of securing a crucial victory that could propel them to the top of the league table.
Despite their unbeaten run since early December and recent qualification for the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals, Manchester City’s track record against Liverpool has not been the most favorable. With only two wins in their last eight meetings and just one victory at Anfield since 2003, Guardiola’s side will need to put on a strong performance to come out on top.
In a tactical move, Guardiola has opted for a centre-back pairing of John Stones and Manuel Akanji, leaving Dias on the bench for this important match. Dias, who has been a key player for City this season, has started 32 matches and played in seven previous encounters against Liverpool since joining the team in 2020.
Guardiola defended his decision to bench Dias, citing Akanji’s speed as a crucial factor in facing off against Liverpool’s fast-paced attackers. Despite Dias’ proven success and reliability in defense, Guardiola’s strategic choice reflects the depth and strength of City’s defensive options.
As the match unfolds at Anfield, the spotlight will be on Guardiola’s lineup decisions and whether his selection pays off in securing a vital victory against Liverpool. With the Premier League title race heating up, every tactical move and player selection will be scrutinized for its impact on Manchester City’s pursuit of a fourth successive league title.
Read Original article on City Xtra
Follow Us on Social media:
- Pep Guardiola Predicts Future, Warns Man City To Be Ready For Arsenal
- “Forget About It” – Guardiola Issues Arsenal Warning As He Prepares City Fans For Nail Biting Season Finale
- Phil Foden says player Man City let go in 2023 had a better first touch than him
- Jurgen Klopp shares what he feels about Pep Guardiola and Man City ahead of Liverpool exit
- Erling Haaland sends three-word message to Phil Foden after winning Premier League award
- Cristian Romero says he’d loved to have played with striker who left Man City in 2021
- Guardiola Sends Warning, Says “West Ham Want To Beat” Man City