Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has urged his squad to rise to the challenge awaiting them at Anfield, insisting that encounters of this magnitude demand character as much as talent.
The Cityzens head to Liverpool on Sunday 8 February aiming to maintain the momentum generated by their midweek success in the Carabao Cup and to keep pace in a fiercely contested Premier League title race.
City approach the fixture buoyed by Wednesday’s 3–1 victory over Newcastle United, a result that secured another appearance at Wembley and underlined the team’s capacity to respond to setbacks.
That performance came only days after a frustrating 2–2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur, a match in which Guardiola’s side dominated long periods but were unable to hold on for maximum points.
The quick recovery, however, has reinforced belief within the camp that the season is entering a decisive phase.
Guardiola warns players must be ready for the Anfield challenge
Trips to Anfield have rarely been comfortable for City in recent years. Their most recent league win on that ground dates back to February 2021, and Liverpool’s home support has often created an intimidating atmosphere.
Guardiola is well aware of the size of the task but views it as an opportunity rather than an obstacle.
According to City official website, Guardiola said: “I have an idea on the line-up and try to see how they played lately, what we have to do, adjust some things, but it’s not just Anfield, all big stages and big games always need big personalities.”
For the Catalan coach, preparation goes beyond tactics. While analysis of Liverpool’s recent form will influence team selection, he believes the psychological approach of his players will ultimately decide the contest.
City’s route to the Carabao Cup final illustrated the depth of resilience within the squad. Against Newcastle they conceded early yet responded with composure, controlling possession and creating chances until their superiority told.
Guardiola described the reaction as evidence that his players are learning to manage difficult moments, a trait he considers essential for the weeks ahead.
The Premier League table adds further significance to Sunday’s meeting. City trail leaders Arsenal by six points, and with the season entering its final stretch, any dropped points could prove costly.
Guardiola has repeatedly stressed that his team must treat each remaining match as a final, particularly against direct rivals.
Although City boast some of the most technically gifted footballers in Europe, Guardiola insists ability alone is not enough to succeed at the highest level.
He has challenged his players to demonstrate courage, leadership and consistency when the pressure intensifies.
He said: “I’ve said many times it’s not about the skills of the players in the first division and Premier League and the big leagues.
“In the top clubs, the skills are there. Not one player is not good enough to play in the big clubs, it’s how you behave, not play good or bad, how you are as a player.
“Do it in big stadiums at home and in the latter stages of the competitions in European competition that define the good players, that much you have, which define the good teams.”
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Those words reflect a philosophy Guardiola has carried throughout his career. From Barcelona to Bayern Munich and now Manchester City, he has often spoken about mentality as the dividing line between excellent individuals and truly great sides.
Anfield, with its history and noise, represents the type of environment where that mentality is tested most severely.
City’s squad contains numerous players familiar with such occasions. Many were involved in treble-winning campaign and have experienced decisive nights in the Champions League and domestic cups.
Yet Guardiola knows past achievements offer no guarantees. Each new challenge requires renewed focus.
