Tribal Football

Guardiola can't confirm if Haaland will start ahead of "tough" Liverpool test at Anfield

Guardiola
GuardiolaAction Images via Reuters

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has spoken to the media ahead of this weekend's clash with Liverpool.

Both sides have identical records from their last six matches heading into the clash, with four draws, one defeat and just one win for both Guardiola and Arne Slot. 

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Facing Liverpool at Anfield will be a tough test

Liverpool have only been beaten in one of their last 22 Premier League home matches against the Citizens, which will give Guardiola’s side confidence as they head to Anfield, which the Spaniard says is always a challenge. 

"Yep. Always a tough opponent and a difficult place and stadium, especially with the quality of the players and the managers. Yes, it's been tough." 

"They (Liverpool) remain an exceptional team. Top-class manager and an exceptional team, no doubt. The moments are the moments, the seasons are the seasons so always remains a good team.

"I have tried to see how they have played lately. What we have to do, if we have to adjust something. But it is Anfield. the biggest stages and the biggest games always need big personalities. I have said many times, it's not about the skills of the players in the top leagues."

Are trophies imperative?

After the 2-2 stalemate with Tottenham Hotspur, dropping points to Liverpool could put a serious dent in City's title hopes, especially if Arsenal pick up 3 points. Guardiola was asked which is more important, playing good football or winning trophies. A question to which Slot answered earlier this week, stating that he wanted to play entertaining football.

"If you want to be a manager it is better to win trophies, always. You do not always have the chance to play nice football. I think everything is related because as a manager when you win you almost always play good.

"You want your players to win it in the best way for the players you have, to play the way in your soul you believe in. I do think this is the most important thing." 

Finally, questions turned to striker Erling Haaland who is out of form at the moment and Guardiola could not confirm whether he will start.

"Erling is the best striker in the world."

Does he play: "I don't know until tomorrow. But all I say is Erling is the best."

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