Pep Guardiola Faces Tough Decisions Ahead of Liverpool Clash as City Look to Rebound
Pep Guardiola must make some bold calls with his Manchester City lineup as they prepare for a critical Premier League showdown against Liverpool on Sunday. With injuries easing but form spiraling, City are teetering on the edge of a fourth consecutive league defeat—a streak not seen in 17 years. Following their collapse against Feyenoord, the pressure is on to turn things around and keep their title hopes alive.
Here’s a breakdown of Guardiola’s key selection dilemmas:
Walker vs. Lewis
Rico Lewis started the season strongly, but the 20-year-old’s heavy workload has impacted his form. He has struggled defensively in recent weeks, with opponents targeting his flank. Despite this, he retained his spot against Feyenoord, while Kyle Walker, City’s captain, was benched after being outpaced in Tottenham’s crucial fourth goal last week.
Guardiola must decide whether to recall Walker for his composure and pace in what promises to be a high-pressure game at Anfield or stick with Lewis, who may also be needed in midfield. “There are pros and cons for starting both right-backs,” Guardiola admitted, highlighting the challenge of finding the right balance.
Ake vs. Gvardiol
Josko Gvardiol, who has played every game this season, has made costly mistakes in recent matches. Guardiola defended the young defender, saying:
“He’s young and he will learn. He is a fantastic player and now, more than ever, must be helped.”
However, with Mo Salah in red-hot form, Guardiola might turn to Nathan Ake for his one-on-one defensive strength. Ake could slot in at left-back, provided Ruben Dias or John Stones are available to partner Manu Akanji in central defense. While Dias made the bench against Feyenoord, Stones’ absence from the squad suggests his inclusion is unlikely. If neither is fit, Gvardiol may have to continue.
Gundogan vs. Lewis vs. Bernardo
In defensive midfield, Ilkay Gundogan has been indispensable amid injuries to Rodri and Mateo Kovacic. Guardiola withdrew Gundogan after his goal against Feyenoord, assuming the game was secure—a decision that backfired.
The question now is who partners Gundogan. Bernardo Silva offers stability as a number eight, while Lewis could push into midfield to add energy. Guardiola has lamented the lack of options, saying:
“We’re missing balance in midfield, but we have to adapt.”
Finding the right combination in midfield will be critical to avoid being overrun by Liverpool.
De Bruyne vs. Foden
The big question: Is Kevin De Bruyne ready to start? The Belgian has only made substitute appearances since his September injury and hasn’t started a game since his early exit against Inter Milan.
Phil Foden, meanwhile, looked sharper against Feyenoord but has struggled for consistency in the Premier League. If De Bruyne returns to the starting lineup, Foden could shift to the wing, focusing on attacking rather than creating.
This decision has implications for City’s other forwards. Jack Grealish may need to prove his worth, while Savinho could be recalled. Guardiola is also monitoring the fitness of Jeremy Doku and weighing whether Matheus Nunes deserves a starting spot after his central role against Feyenoord.
High Stakes at Anfield
With a mix of tired players and out-of-form forwards, Guardiola has limited options but must make bold decisions to steer City back on track. Sunday’s game at Anfield will be a defining moment for City’s season.
