Premier League 2018-19, Manchester City vs Liverpool: 3 tactical factors which could determine the fate of the match

3. Liverpool fullbacks cannot afford to go into overlaps too often

Both the Liverpool full-backs, Andrew Robertson and Trent Alexander-Arnold, like to go into overlaps frequently. And the City wingers like Raheem Sterling, Leroy Sane and Mahrez would try to exploit the space left behind by them.

Sterling has the tendency of going near the goal-line by dribbling past the opposition defenders and then deliver the vital cross to the likes of Sergio Aguero. He already has 10 goals and 7 assists for City this season.

Both Sane and Mahrez possess great pace and can destroy a defence within a few seconds.

The Liverpool full-backs would have to be on guard against such threats and stay in their own half as much as possible. Liverpool’s defensive midfielders should also be able to give covers to the overlapping full-backs as much as possible, and they cannot afford to allow the City wingers to have free sway inside their own half.

About the author

Subhadeep, an adept tennis journalist at Sportskeeda, has been writing about the sport for seven years. He is known for his exclusive match reviews and opinion pieces, utilizing his MBA degree to tackle them effectively with his problem-solving abilities.

Subhadeep lives and breathes tennis. He watches matches regularly and engages in social media platforms to stay on top of the latest happenings. As a writer, he brings the fan's perspective to his pieces, ensuring his readers enjoy an exceptional experience every time.

Growing up, he idolized Boris Becker, but he now firmly believes Novak Djokovic stands alone as the 'Greatest of all Time', especially considering the 24-time Grand Slam champion's incredible stats. One thing that still puzzles Subhadeep, however, is how Becker's Wimbledon tally might have reached five if not for Pete Sampras.

Speaking of the All England Club, the British Major holds a special place in his heart as he admires its blend of tradition and grass-court excellence. When not working for Sportskeeda, Subhadeep delves into the other "love of his life": football, and enjoys contributing his insights to different websites dedicated to the sport.

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Edited by Musab Abid