Football’s fiercest modern rivalry reignites on Sunday as Manchester City welcome Liverpool to the Etihad Stadium in what marks Pep Guardiola’s 1000th game as a manager. Both sides head into the clash rejuvenated after returning to winning ways in the Premier League, with City sitting second and Liverpool just one point behind in third. The two clubs, who have dominated English football for nearly a decade, are once again battling to close the gap on league leaders Arsenal—making this encounter more than just a milestone; it’s a potential title decider in the making.

City’s 3-1 victory over Bournemouth served as a reminder of their ruthless quality, spearheaded by Erling Haaland’s clinical double. The Norwegian striker continues to be City’s main weapon, though Guardiola will be demanding more from his supporting cast. Remarkably, City’s second-highest Premier League scorer remains an opponent—Burnley’s Maxime Estève—with two own goals. Guardiola’s men have struggled against Liverpool in recent meetings, failing to win any of their last four encounters, but the legendary Spaniard will be eager to mark his managerial milestone with a statement win against their old rivals.

Liverpool, meanwhile, have found their spark again under Arne Slot. After enduring a torrid run of four league defeats, the Reds rediscovered their rhythm with a commanding 2-0 victory over Aston Villa, inspired by Mohamed Salah’s 250th goal for the club. Slot’s men then carried that momentum into Europe, dismantling Real Madrid in a confident Champions League display. Having beaten both City and Madrid last season, Slot is eyeing another famous double—but can Liverpool spoil Guardiola’s historic night and prove they’re still the kings of the Premier League stage? Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.