Why Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp must put Manchester City under pressure from the off

By Max Cohen

Liverpool tore Arsenal to shreds on Sunday, hitting the top-four challengers for five goals in a rampant rout.

When the Reds travel to the Etihad on Thursday, Jurgen Klopp must utilise his aggressive, high-press tactics from the opening whistle in order to shake the confidence of Manchester City.

The matchup of first versus second in the Premier League brings together two sides with differing form — Liverpool have won eight consecutive games and City have lost three matches this month.

Due to the damaged confidence of the champions, Liverpool need to break up their possession play in the early stages of the match.

(Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images)

This approach proved effective against Manchester United, where an early blitz overwhelmed the Red Devils and stifled their attacking play.

If Klopp can muster the bravery to attack the Citizens from the off, then Liverpool could emerge with a crucial victory in their bid for their first Premier League title.

And with Liverpool’s positive results against Manchester City last season, there is no better team to beat the defending champions on their home pitch.