3 key battles that might determine the outcome of Man City vs Liverpool

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The Premier League returns to action this weekend after the International break and we have a cracking opening match as Liverpool visit the Etihad Stadium to play Manchester City.

Liverpool’s success rate against the ‘top 6’ has been well documented and they do not fear anything in their way. Manchester City, meanwhile, will be looking to get some more fluidity in their football.

There are so many stars in the two sides and we pick out the three key tete-a-tete’s that could decide the outcome of this encounter.

 

1) Kyle Walker vs Sadio Mane

You cannot look further from Mane if you are looking for a player who consistently brings his A-game to the big matches. The Senegalese has been on fire scoring thrice already in three games for the Reds. The winger can wreak havoc with his pace and balance. Coming up on his side will be Man City’s expensive new signing Kyle Walker. The former Spurs defender has had a mixed start to his career in a City jersey. He put in a man of the match performance in the opener but was harshly sent-off against Everton. He has served his suspension and is expected to return straight back into the first XI and who else in the league could provide a better test of his credentials. Kyle Walker does possess the pace to catch up with the former Southampton winger but he will have to curtail his offensive foray’s to offer protection against the man in form.

 

2) Bernardo Silva vs Moreno/Robertson

The diminutive attacking midfielder/winger made his first start before the international break against Bournemouth and impressed the city faithful. His touch, balance, and poise were all a delight to watch. His nimble feet threatened Bournemouth’s defence and he is expected to do so again. He will be faced with either Moreno or Robertson on the right side. Moreno has been Klopp’s first choice and so far hasn’t done much to be dropped. Robertson did, however, look extremely impressive against Crystal Palace. Whoever starts, they will have to wary of Bernardo’s creativity and try to contain him from cutting on his favoured left foot.

 

3) Nicolas Otamendi vs Roberto Firmino

Firmino has also started the season in top form as he looks to consolidate his role as Liverpool’s centre forward with Sturridge and Solanke waiting in the wings. His piercing runs often cause the defenders trouble but expect Otamendi to put up a fight. The Argentinian looks like he will be preferred to Stones for the time being and he will be eager to prove his worth. His no-nonsense defending will be something Pep does not like but might need to resort to as the face a fiery Liverpool side who can punish mistakes.

Read: Jonny Evans talks about his failed move to Man City.