In December 2024, Pep Guardiola's Manchester City found themselves trailing 2-0 against Liverpool at Anfield, as the home crowd sang, "you're getting sacked in the morning" to the City manager. The match marked an unexpected path towards their fourth consecutive Premier League defeat. Guardiola responded by raising six fingers to the crowd, symbolizing the six Premier League titles he won with City.
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However, recent scrutiny has emerged following an independent commission's verdict, which deemed the club guilty of most of the 115 charges brought by the Premier League against them. Current City manager Enzo Maresca asserted that the club's titles are "absolutely not" tainted. Now, with the next match set at Anfield on Sunday, Maresca and his squad must adapt to their new reality, facing what is expected to be a hostile environment.
City has enjoyed a perfect start to the Premier League season, winning all five of their matches thus far. A victory for Maresca would be significant in maintaining that momentum. For Liverpool, under manager Andoni Iraola, this match presents an opportunity to rejuvenate their campaign. Iraola stated, "It's an exciting game. We are playing at home at Anfield against a City that is top of the league. We will go for it, and it will be quite an open game."
This match will be unique, as it will be the first since 2015 without either Jurgen Klopp or Guardiola on the sidelines. Nevertheless, a charged atmosphere is anticipated, with Liverpool chairman Tom Werner in attendance. Historically, Liverpool has finished second in the Premier League to City multiple times, including in the 2013-14, 2018-19, and 2021-22 seasons, often missing out by narrow margins.
Liverpool's former goalkeeping coach John Achterberg noted the frustration of past near misses, recalling that the club won only one title during that span but could have easily won four. Iraola acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding City’s situation but emphasized the focus on Liverpool’s performance.
The rivalry between Liverpool and Manchester City has intensified since City's acquisition by Abu Dhabi in 2008, with matches frequently delivering excitement. In a memorable 2018 encounter, Liverpool faced a fine after their supporters threw missiles at the City bus before a Champions League match, which Liverpool won decisively.
Merseyside Police have indicated that they will have a plan in place for the match but have not disclosed specific details. There is speculation that the team buses will receive a notable welcome upon their arrival at Anfield, and fans are gearing up with banners and flags for the occasion. Liverpool's approach remains "business as usual," with regular safety meetings prior to each match, although this event is expected to be particularly unique.