Liverpool head to the Etihad seeking their first win at Manchester City’s home in over five years and a chance to go 11 points clear at the Premier League summit.
The December reverse fixture ended 2‑0 to Liverpool thanks to goals from Cody Gakpo and Mohamed Salah.
Arne Slot makes just one change. Alisson Becker starts between the sticks, trusted ahead of Kelleher. Trent Alexander‑Arnold is fit and returns at right-back, with Andy Robertson slotting in at left.
Virgil van Dijk partners Ibrahima Konaté at centre-back despite Konaté nursing an injury scare from the Champions League clash.
In midfield, Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister anchor the double pivot. Both have been imperious in recent weeks, driving Liverpool’s engine room forward. Predicted No. 10 Dominik Szoboszlai could drop to the bench, paving the way for Curtis Jones to move central from the wing.
Up front, the shake-up is significant. Luis Díaz returns on the left wing in place of Szoboszlai, offering pace and directness in wide areas.
Mohamed Salah continues his golden run on the right. Cody Gakpo is potentially sidelined through injury, opening the door for this trio.
At the tip of the attack, Diogo Jota may lead the line over Darwin Núñez, who missed a sitter against Villa. Jota offers experience and tactical discipline in a high-stakes clash.
This predicted XI reflects urgency and restraint. One change. One return. One chance to make history with minimum fuss—but maximum impact.