Premier League icon Jamie Carragher has advised Liverpool and Arsenal not to be disheartened by Manchester City’s recent success and to instead aim to defeat them when they face off. Carragher believes that the teams should attempt to prolong the title race, as football has a tendency to produce unexpected outcomes.
Liverpool currently sit at the top of the Premier League standings with 51 points. Arsenal, just a few points behind, hold the third position. Manchester City, on the other hand, are in second place, also trailing Liverpool by two points. However, unlike their rivals, the reigning champions have a game in hand, which means that a victory in that fixture would allow them to surpass Liverpool in the rankings.
Furthermore, Kevin De Bruyne and Erling Haaland, arguably City’s two best players, have returned to action after a lengthy injury layoff. When in top form, this duo can dismantle even the most defensively solid teams in Europe. Moreover, City have been in exceptional form recently, enjoying a five-match winning streak in the Premier League. If they maintain this level of performance, they could become the first team in history to win four consecutive Premier League titles.
Carragher, a Liverpool legend who won the UEFA Champions League with the club in 2005, acknowledges the challenging situation his former team and Mikel Arteta’s side are facing. However, he urges them to focus on their own matches and strive to defeat City when they meet in the Premier League.
During an interview on Sky Sports, the former defender stated (via LiverpoolECHO):
“From Liverpool and Arsenal’s perspective, there will naturally be some nervousness as City is returning and likely to embark on a winning streak. However, both Arsenal and Liverpool must face City. If you want to win the league, you have to beat City. Then, in the other matches, you will likely be the favorites. It is crucial for the players and fans not to become too disheartened by Manchester City’s achievements.”
He concluded by adding:
“Disregard City when you face them, focus on your own performance, and try to extend the title race for as long as possible. Who knows what might happen then.”
Liverpool will host Manchester City at Anfield for their Premier League encounter on March 10. Meanwhile, Arsenal will attempt to defeat Pep Guardiola’s side at the Etihad Stadium, their formidable home ground, on March 31.