Man City are going into the weekend on the back of three consecutive Premier League defeats, and 6 games without a win in all competitions. Every team can have a bad run of form but Pep will be looking to his players to make a statement when they face Liverpool on Sunday. It’s one of the biggest games of the season so far and could set the direction for both teams as we approach the New Year.

Liverpool could go 11 points clear of City if they can take advantage of City’s form and take all three points, which would put Liverpool as clear favourites to win the title. There is a very long way to go but Arne Slot’s side have been impressive so far, with Salah in fine form despite the uncertainty about his future at Liverpool.

For Man City, defeat would be another blow, mostly for the morale of everyone at the club. City are one of those teams with so much talent and success as a group that you can’t imagine they could have their confidence knocked, but there would be a lot of work to do to bring things back to their usual level if they go 7 games without a win and fall so far behind the pace in the race for the Premier League title.

They look unbalanced and have a problem now that wasn’t there before, of late runs from the midfield into their line of defence to find holes that they didn’t used to have. They are being tested and opponents are starting to believe more that they can surprise City with energy and staying calm.

Chelsea, Arsenal and Brighton are all just a point behind City currently and can leapfrog City if they do drop points against Liverpool. Arsenal play West Ham on Saturday, and themselves are looking for some consistency in results. Chelsea have been a bit of a surprise package this season and host Villa on Sunday where three points will build on the momentum at the Bridge.

Brighton have been an even bigger surprise and are looking for European football. They could even go 2nd in the league if results go their way and they beat Southampton tonight.