Firmino in, Bernardo out: Liverpool and Manchester City combined XI ahead of Premier League clash
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Liverpool and Manchester City, the two best teams in English football in recent years are gearing up for a much-anticipated clash in the Premier League this weekend.
Jurgen Klopp and Pep Guardiola’s sides have been going toe to toe for the last few seasons as they battled for both domestic and continental glory.
This season, however, Liverpool have been performing way below par as they find themselves 13 points adrift of their rivals.
City, on the other hand, are keeping themselves close to leaders Arsenal. New signing Erling Haaland has hit the ground running straight away, scoring 20 goals in all competitions already.
Ahead of the big match, we have chosen a combined Liverpool and City XI.
Goalkeeper - Alisson
Ederson and Alisson are for sure the outstanding goalkeepers in the Premier League. Whilst Ederson is unrivalled when it comes to passing, Alisson just edges it as a better all-round keeper.
Right Back - Kyle Walker
An easy enough choice at right back as Trent Alexander Arnold has been in poor form recently, though his quality is undoubtedly there, he hasn’t been able to produce it enough.
Centre Backs - Ruben Dias + Virgil van Dijk
Despite Liverpool and Van Dijk’s poor start to the season, the Dutchman remains one of the finest in his position. Dias is the leader at the back for City and has been looking solid yet again.
Left Back - Joao Cancelo
Cancelo is arguably the best fullback in world football right now, he has everything a modern fullback needs, and his attacking and defending skillset is second to none. What a player.
Midfield - Rodri + Kevin de Bruyne
There is no doubt about the choices in midfield as Rodri and de Bruyne are two of the best in the world right now. Belgian de Bruyne is one of the best passers football has ever seen. Whilst Rodri has developed into a world-class holding midfielder.
Right Wing - Mohamed Salah
If we look at his recent form he should not be anywhere near this team but how can you possibly leave one of the best players in the world out? He will be hoping his midweek hat trick will kick start his season. On his day, there isn’t anyone better than Salah.
Attacking Midfielder - Roberto Firmino
Firmino looked like he was done and dusted last season but his resurgence this season has been nothing short of amazing. Only Haaland has more goal contributions than the Brazilian.
Left Wing - Phil Foden
Foden has had a brilliant start to the season, only Harry Kane and Haaland have outscored the 22-year-old. A versatile asset that can operate on both flanks and in midfield. England's star for the present and the future.
Striker - Erling Haaland
The best striker in the world right now, Haaland has looked unplayable so far this season. If he continues his fine form, he will be breaking records left, right and centre. Stop him if you can.
Do you agree with this XI? Let us know in the comments.
Featured Image Credit: Alamy/Footyrenders
Topics: Liverpool, Manchester City, Premier League
