A top-of-the-table clash, emerging rivalry and an enviable array of attacking talent; Sunday’s meeting between Liverpool and Manchester City should be one to savour.
Here, we look at the tactics Reds boss Jurgen Klopp should consider at Anfield.
MASTERS OF TRANSITION
Expect an old friend to be brought back by Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp this weekend.
The German has turned down his famous ‘gegenpress’ this term. Rather than using physical intensity to make opponents crack, a psychological superiority/inferiority complex has been at play.
Sheer weight of talent, however, will not unsettle City’s superstars.
Research by The Times this weekend showed that from Liverpool’s nine goals against the Blues last term, they held the ball a maximum 14 seconds.
The onus moves to making counter-attacks as swift as possible. When, for example, Jordan Henderson wins the ball in midfield, City’s attacking shape must be instantly exploited by forward Mohamed Salah and Co.
PRESSURE THE DEFENCE
Liverpool are experts at turning pressure points to their advantage.
Guardiola didn’t lightly say in Amazon’s ‘All or Nothing’ documentary that “They scare me”, when referencing the Reds. Klopp’s 57-per-cent winning ratio against the iconic Spaniard is unprecedented and this comes from his ability to strike at the heart of an area of strength.
The Catalan’s sides dominate possession and build from the back. Their defenders hold the ball more than other teams, leading to more opportunities for your attackers to win it in advantageous positions.
Goalkeeper Ederson and centre-back Nicolas Otamendi both fell victim in last term’s Champions League quarter-finals to the hustling attacking trio of Salah, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane.
