Pep Guardiola has openly admitted that Liverpool’s summer transition, with Arne Slot replacing Jurgen Klopp, has sparked his interest in watching the Reds more frequently.
The Manchester City manager, who had fierce tactical battles with Klopp over their eight seasons together in the Premier League, is now preparing for a fresh rivalry at Anfield under new leadership.
In a recent interview with Sky Sports, Guardiola shared his thoughts: “When I play a new club in the Champions League that I don’t know, I [watch them] much more than playing against Arsenal, for example.
“Of course, I want to watch Arsenal, don’t misunderstand me, but Mikel has been there four or five years.
“We know also before with Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool. Now I have to watch more of Liverpool because of Arne. I don’t know exactly what they do, but with Jurgen, we knew each other better.”
This curiosity signals a new era of competition between City and Liverpool, and it’s clear that Guardiola is already focused on understanding Slot’s tactics ahead of their clash later this year.
Slot’s first game against Manchester City will be box office
When Liverpool face Manchester City on 30 November. it promises to be a box office event.
Trent Alexander-Arnold. Credit: Imago Images
Under Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool vs. City delivered some of the most electrifying and high-stakes matches in Premier League history, and Slot’s first showdown with Pep Guardiola is expected to follow in the same thrilling footsteps.
Slot’s aggressive, high-tempo style of play will undoubtedly be put to the test against a City side that thrives on control and precision.
With both teams favouring attacking football, this matchup could turn into an end-to-end spectacle. Slot’s ability to challenge City’s defence will be fascinating to watch, but equally, his defensive structure will face a stern examination from what is arguably the best team in the country.
The stakes are always high when Liverpool and Manchester City meet, and with Slot eager to make his mark in his first big test against the reigning champions, this fixture has all the ingredients to be a captivating contest.
All eyes will be on how the new Liverpool boss navigates this tactical battle against Guardiola’s well-oiled City machine.
A lot will also depend on where both sides are in the table as they currently occupy first and second place.
