Pundit and former Arsenal striker Paul Merson has revealed he believes that Manchester City cannot possibly win the Champions League this season with two midfielders in defence.
City have resorted to playing Rodri and Fernandinho in defence, with several key defenders out injured.
As a result, Merson believes that Liverpool are still on course to retain their Champions League crown, and make it seven successes on the contintent.
He said, via the Mail:
City are a very good team, but they are not going to win the Champions League, playing against the best teams in Europe, with two holding midfielders in defence.
They need Aymeric Laporte back. I thought Juventus would be one of the dangers, but I watched them the other night and they are not going to win it.
When Bayern Munich rinsed Tottenham the other week, I didn’t think they were the team to beat. I didn’t think that at all if I’m being honest. I thought they looked quite open.
I still think Liverpool are the team to beat. They lost in the final two seasons ago and then won it last season. Who’s got better form than that?
They hardly ever lose at home, if ever. No one wants to go and play at Anfield. I still think Liverpool will be there or thereabouts come the end of the competition.
Read Liverpool’s verdict
Liverpool may have not had the greatest start in the Champions League, but improvement will surely come in the knockout rounds.
City haven’t looked as good as they have been previously, meaning Liverpool could really have a shot at winning both the Champions League and Premier League.
However, it still is early days.
