With two-thirds of the 2025–26 Premier League season already played, the title race appears, at least on paper, to be tilting decisively in Arsenal’s favour. The Gunners sit top of the table with 56 points from 25 matches. Manchester City, having played one game fewer, trail by nine points on 47. Such is the gap between the top two that some observers have begun to speculate that the destination of the trophy may already be settled.
Against that backdrop, one might assume that Manchester City’s visit to Liverpool carries limited significance in the broader title equation—particularly as the reigning champions are not currently in realistic contention. Liverpool occupy sixth place with 39 points from 25 matches, 17 adrift of Arsenal and eight behind City.
Yet to dismiss this fixture would be a mistake. When Liverpool and Manchester City meet at Anfield, context rarely diminishes consequence. There are at least three compelling reasons why this encounter merits close attention.
Table of Contents
Current League Standings (Top Six)
| Position | Club | Played | Points | Points Behind 1st |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arsenal | 25 | 56 | — |
| 2 | Man City | 24 | 47 | 9 |
| 3 | — | — | — | — |
| 4 | — | — | — | — |
| 5 | — | — | — | — |
| 6 | Liverpool | 25 | 39 | 17 |
1. England’s Modern “Clásico”
Though it lacks an official title, Liverpool versus Manchester City has evolved into the defining English rivalry of the past decade. The managerial duel between Pep Guardiola and Jürgen Klopp elevated the fixture into a clash of philosophies as much as footballing talent.
Klopp may have departed, but his successor Arne Slot has embraced the magnitude of the occasion. The Dutchman recently described the contest as “England’s El Clásico”, admitting that even during his time coaching in the Netherlands he would make a point of watching City against Liverpool.
History suggests Anfield remains one of City’s most demanding destinations. In the last 22 league meetings between the sides, Liverpool have lost only once, winning 14 and drawing seven. That dominance at home adds an extra layer of intrigue.
However, City have an opportunity to rewrite a long-standing narrative. Having won the reverse fixture 3–0 at the Etihad in November, Guardiola’s side could complete a league double over Liverpool for the first time since the 1936–37 season.
2. Injury Concerns and Key Returns
Both teams approach the match with fitness concerns. Liverpool defender Joe Gomez returns to the matchday squad after missing two games, though Slot has cautioned that he may not yet be ready to start. With defensive options stretched, even limited minutes could prove vital.
Jeremie Frimpong, however, is unavailable after sustaining a muscle injury in the Champions League against Qarabag.
City, too, face uncertainties. Bernardo Silva, injured against Tottenham, missed the Carabao Cup tie with Newcastle and remains a doubt. Guardiola has indicated that a final decision would follow a late fitness assessment.
There is better news regarding Rúben Dias, who returned to the bench last week following a month out with a hamstring injury. His potential involvement could significantly bolster City’s defensive stability.
3. City’s Urgency and Momentum
Despite trailing Arsenal by nine points, City’s confidence has been buoyed by their progression to the League Cup final. They remain active in four competitions—Premier League, FA Cup, League Cup and Champions League—demonstrating both squad depth and ambition.
Yet Anfield presents a formidable obstacle. City have not won a league match there since February 2021. If they are to sustain pressure on Arsenal and keep their title hopes alive, three points are close to essential.
In short, while the match may not directly determine the championship, it could shape the psychological and competitive landscape of the season. Prestige, pride, momentum and history converge under the Anfield lights—ample reason for the footballing world to tune in.