The Premier League’s fiercest rivalry reignites today, Sunday, February 8, 2026, as Liverpool vs Manchester City at Anfield. This afternoon’s clash, kicking off at 4:30 PM UK time, marks the 200th encounter between these two titans in all competitions, with plenty on the line for both sides.
City’s Stumbles, Liverpool’s Hope
Manchester City arrives on Merseyside in a slump. They’ve won just one of their last six games, a run that sees them trail Arsenal by nine points in the title race. Pep Guardiola’s side hasn’t looked like the consistent machine of past seasons.
And Guardiola himself admitted frustrations over missed chances recently, stating, “When we miss chances in a thousand games lately — in the six-yard box, from near the penalty spots, with the keeper one-against-one — I’ve said, ‘Wow, [with those goals] we have more points and are closer’.” Sky Sports reported his concerns.
The champions also show defensive vulnerabilities, shipping 1.6 expected goals against per 90 minutes in recent outings. They’ve also allowed 4.8 shots on target per 90. This isn’t the impenetrable City we’re used to seeing. They drew with Sunderland, Chelsea, Brighton, Tottenham, and lost to Manchester United last month. This form is a concern.
Liverpool, under Arne Slot, has been a bit inconsistent, too. They’re chasing a third successive victory but dropped out of the top four after a surprising loss to Bournemouth. However, new summer signings Hugo Ekitike and Florian Wirtz are providing a spark.
They’ve combined for six goals and six assists, making them the most productive duo in the league. Jamie Carragher spoke highly of Wirtz, saying, “Wirtz is getting better all the time… the lad has real quality,” as noted in a Goal.com article.
Haaland’s Drought, Anfield’s Curse
Erling Haaland’s form remains a major talking point. He’s not scored an open-play Premier League goal in 2026. His last two came way back on December 20, 2025, against West Ham.
Guardiola, though, stood by his star striker. He called him “the best striker in the world” when asked about starting him against Liverpool, adding, “I always say Erling is the best.” OneFootball highlighted Guardiola’s loyalty.
Anfield has also been a tough ground for Guardiola. He’s managed only one Premier League win there since 2016. Liverpool holds a strong head-to-head record too. City has won just two of their last 13 games against the Reds. It is a hostile environment. Guardiola called Liverpool “always the toughest opponent” and an “exceptional team with a top class manager.”
How to Watch Liverpool vs Manchester City
Fans can catch all the action live on Sky Sports, with coverage starting at 4:00 PM UK. The match kicks off at 4:30 PM. For those without a Sky Sports subscription, instant access is available via NOW without a contract.
You can stream it on the Sky Sports app too. It’s a big game. And with City nine points behind Arsenal, every point matters. Liverpool needs consistency to reclaim a top-four spot. It will be a battle.
