Premier League Giants Face Off with Depleted Squads
The highly anticipated Premier League clash between Liverpool and Manchester City at Anfield Stadium this Sunday, February 8, 2026, will see both teams missing crucial players due to fitness issues and injuries. Up to 11 players are expected to be absent from this pivotal encounter, which could significantly influence the outcome of the match.
Historical Context and Current Implications
History does not favor Manchester City in this fixture, as they have managed only two wins in their last 38 trips to Anfield. This weekend's game takes on added importance with both sides grappling with key absences. The match is set to be a test of squad depth and tactical adaptability for managers Arne Slot and Pep Guardiola.
Liverpool's Injury Woes
Liverpool will be without several first-team players, which could disrupt their defensive and attacking setups. The confirmed absentees include:
- Joe Gomez – The centre-back has a hip injury and has been missing from training, with coach Arne Slot confirming his likely absence.
- Jeremy Frimpong – The winger is sidelined with a thigh injury and will miss several weeks of action.
- Alexander Isak – The striker, who suffered a nasty injury in December 2025, remains far from fit and faces months on the sidelines.
- Giovanni Leoni – The teenage centre-back is ruled out for the season due to an ACL injury sustained on his debut.
- Conor Bradley – The right-back is nursing a knee injury from last month's draw against Arsenal and is expected to be out for weeks.
Manchester City's Missing Stars
Manchester City also faces significant challenges with key players unavailable. Their absentees include:
- Jeremy Doku – The winger suffered a calf injury in a Champions League match and will miss this game and more weeks.
- Ruben Dias – The experienced defender has been sidelined with an injury from the Chelsea draw, and fitness concerns persist.
- John Stones – The centre-back has been out since December 2025 and is not expected to return this weekend.
- Savinho – The winger is out with a thigh injury and is expected to return later this month.
- Josko Gvardiol – The centre-back is recovering from an injury sustained against Chelsea and will miss the match.
- Mateo Kovacic – The midfielder has been nursing an ankle injury since November and is not expected back soon.
Broader Premier League Impact
This match comes at a critical juncture in the Premier League season. Arsenal's recent 3-0 victory over Sunderland has moved them nine points clear of Manchester City, marking their largest top-of-the-table lead since the 2003/04 season. The outcome of the Liverpool vs Manchester City clash could further shape the title race, adding pressure on both teams to perform despite their injury setbacks.
The absence of high-profile players like Doku and Isak highlights the physical demands of top-flight football and the importance of squad rotation. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how both teams adapt their strategies in this high-stakes encounter.
