In order to get our best 11 (available) players on the pitch, I think I'd go for a 3-4-3 -- could also be seen as a 5-2-3 when defending. City will dominate the ball, so we should look to hit them on the counter using the pace of Mane and Salah. I expect our wide players to basically play as wingbacks, so the onus would mostly fall on one of Gini or Can to join in and add a 4th player to the attack. I'd go for:
Migs
Gomez - Matip - VVD
Chambo - Gini - Can - Robbo
Salah - Bobby - Mane
I see what you want to do, but I think it would be a huge mistake to start with 3 at the back against City. While it might help deal with Sane and Sterling, it'll leave us vulnerable in the middle of the pitch.
Sane and Sterling (even with all his goals) aren't the problem, it's Silva and De Bruyne we need to stop. The midfield battle will be key and a midfield of just Can and Gini won't be enough against Fernandinho, Silva and De Bruyne.
I'd go with:
Think Trent is better suited to deal with a player like Sane. We're likely to see Gomez start though. Don't want to see Milner in midfield up against City's runners, too slow. Can usually plays well in big games, so counting on him. Wijnaldum and Lallana (hopefully fully fit by then) should provide us with enough energy in the middle. Salah and Mane can enjoy themselves up against Otamendi and Stones.
Was wondering earlier today if Klopp had actually mentioned anything with regards to goalkeepers? Usually he mentions who is going to start, haven't heard anything yet. Only heard that it was 'a good time to rest Simon' in the Fa Cup game. So Mignolet starting probably? Would be nice to see Karius in goal again.
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