Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola refused to be drawn into comparisons between Arne Slot and Jurgen Klopp.
The Premier League champions host the Reds on Sunday as they look to claw back ground in the race at the top of the table.
But it will not be an easy task against Slot’s side, who are yet to lose on the road in the top flight.
It has raised questions over whether the Dutchman in charge of the Merseyside club is better than his predecessor, who won the Premier League and Champions League during his time at Anfield.
Speaking during his pre-match press conference, Guardiola said: “I’m not going to answer that question. I have much respect for Jurgen and I know you want to go but I will not play that game.
“We can compete with any team. We have two central defenders out for two to three months. The Premier League is massively important for us. In the Premier League we have played really good games.
🗣️ “We deserve to have a bad season”
Man City boss Pep Guardiola says that his team deserve a bad season after all of their success 🏆 pic.twitter.com/UgutX4ZK0z
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) February 21, 2025
“We are not stable but in other games such as against Newcastle, we have been at a high level. We will try to play a good game and the points that we need to stay up there to qualify [for the Champions League] next season.”
Erling Haaland was left on the bench for City during their Champions League exit against Real Madrid in midweek.
And the Spanish head coach is still unable to provide a clear update on whether he will be available against Liverpool.
He added: “Don’t know yet. Tomorrow we will know it but I don’t know. It’s better to have Erling on the pitch but obviously, we don’t have it but of course with Erling we are stronger.”
Guardiola also said of John Stones’ injury: “He’s injured, difficult one, next hours/days we will know whether he needs surgery or not.
“Yes, like Manuel Akanji [who is out for eight to 10 weeks after suffering an abductor injury in the first leg of their Champions League tie against Real Madrid].”
