Fresh from their EFL Cup success, Manchester City return to the Etihad to face Liverpool in the FA Cup quarter-finals on Saturday.
City’s campaign looked to be drifting after falling behind in the Premier League title race and exiting the Champions League to Real Madrid, but their Wembley triumph has reignited momentum.
A 2-0 win over Arsenal in the final, inspired by Nico O’Reilly, ensured Pep Guardiola secured the 40th major trophy of his managerial career.
The FA Cup has been a consistent source of success for City, who have won 19 of their last 21 matches in the competition. Victory here would send them to a record eighth consecutive semi-final and extend an extraordinary home winning run in the tournament.
Liverpool, meanwhile, arrive with a significant subplot surrounding Mohamed Salah, who has confirmed he will leave the club at the end of the season. The Egyptian could return from injury in time for this tie, adding further intrigue to an already high-profile encounter.
City have already beaten Liverpool twice in the league this season, and another win would see them complete a clean sweep across all competitions.
Man City v Liverpool team news
Manchester City remain without Josko Gvardiol, while John Stones and Ruben Dias will be assessed. Marc Guehi is available again and could start in defence, while James Trafford is expected to feature in goal.
O’Reilly’s role is flexible following his impact in the EFL Cup final, and he may either continue at left-back or move into midfield alongside Rodri and Bernardo Silva.
Erling Haaland is set to lead the line, having an excellent recent record against Liverpool.
Liverpool are dealing with several absentees, including Alisson Becker and Wataru Endo, while Jeremie Frimpong is a doubt. Alexander Isak has returned to training but may not be ready to start.
Salah is close to full fitness and could return, aiming to extend a strong FA Cup scoring run. Dominik Szoboszlai may be used in a deeper or wider role depending on availability in defence.
