Paul Merson and Chris Sutton are in agreement on their predictions for the Man City vs. Liverpool match, saying, “Let’s be honest…”
Paul Merson and Chris Sutton are both backing Liverpool to make a strong statement in the Premier League title race when they face Manchester City on Sunday.
If Arsenal defeat West Ham, Liverpool’s lead could be cut to five points before their trip to the Etihad. Meanwhile, City are still reeling from their Champions League exit to Real Madrid and may be without Erling Haaland due to injury. Despite Liverpool’s recent struggles against Everton and Aston Villa, some pundits believe they have a real chance to secure their first league win at the Etihad since November 2015.
Merson and Sutton’s Predictions
In his column for Sportskeeda, Paul Merson predicted a 3-1 victory for Liverpool, stating:
> “I think Liverpool will rip City apart here. I can’t believe I’m saying this, but that’s just what I feel. City have no chance! If Liverpool don’t win, they’ll be extremely disappointed. City looked slow against Real Madrid, and Liverpool’s pace will be too much for them. A win here would effectively end Arsenal’s title hopes, and I expect Liverpool to build on it with wins against Newcastle and Southampton. That’s champion mentality.”
Chris Sutton also predicted a 3-1 Liverpool win, telling BBC Sport:
> “City essentially surrendered at the Bernabeu, showing no belief without Haaland. Their performance lacked intensity. Liverpool had a tough game against Villa, but they must believe they can hurt this City team.”
A Golden Opportunity for Liverpool
Liverpool haven’t had a better chance to win at the Etihad since their 4-1 triumph in 2015. With City already out of the title race and the Champions League, only the FA Cup remains as a realistic shot at silverware for Guardiola’s side.
Liverpool dominated City in the reverse fixture at Anfield, but their recent form has been inconsistent. At this stage of the season, results matter more than performances, and a victory at the Etihad—regardless of how it comes—would be a massive statement in the title race.
However, to secure all three points, Liverpool must improve on their recent displays against Everton, Wolves, and Villa. While City may not be as dominant as in previous years, their 4-0 demolition of Newcastle last week showed they can still turn on the style.
A draw would be a respectable result for Liverpool, but a win would be a significant step toward dethroning City as Premier League champions.
