FA Cup Quarter-Final Preview: A Combined XI of Manchester City and Liverpool Stars
The FA Cup returns this weekend with a high-stakes clash between Manchester City and Liverpool in the quarter-finals. The two giants of English football will face off at the Etihad Stadium, with both sides vying for a spot in the semi-finals at Wembley. For Liverpool, this match is crucial as they look to salvage their season, while Manchester City aims to build on their recent Carabao Cup success.
With both teams having experienced a mixed campaign this season, the question remains: which players will feature in a combined XI? By crunching the stats, we’ve identified the best performers from both Pep Guardiola’s and Arne Slot’s squads.
Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Donnarumma
Gianluigi Donnarumma has been a consistent presence between the sticks for Manchester City this season, recording 14 clean sheets across all competitions. Despite a mixed few weeks—winning his first trophy with City but missing out on the World Cup with Italy—he remains a key figure in the team.
Donnarumma has yet to start in the FA Cup this campaign, with Claudio Bravo likely to get the nod again. However, his overall performance and impact in goal earn him the place ahead of Allison Becker in this combined XI.
Right Wing Back: Dominik Szoboszlai
Dominik Szoboszlai has been a standout performer for Liverpool this season, particularly when playing out of position. His versatility and attacking threat have made him a valuable asset, especially after Jermie Frimpong was substituted early in the Netherlands’ recent match.
Szoboszlai has contributed two goals in the FA Cup and shown a knack for scoring from set-pieces. While Matheus Nunes has also adapted well to an unconventional role, it’s Szoboszlai who edges out the competition for the right wing-back spot.
Right Centre Back: Ibrahim Konate
Ibrahim Konate has had a mixed season, falling short of the standards he set last year. Despite some costly errors, he has done enough to secure a place in the combined XI ahead of Manchester City’s Marc Guehi and Abdukodir Khusanov.
Konate’s presence in the backline offers a sense of experience and reliability, even if he hasn’t consistently delivered at the highest level this season.
Centre Back: Ruben Dias
Ruben Dias remains one of the most dependable defenders in the Premier League. Although he hasn’t started in the FA Cup this season, his leadership and consistency make him a vital part of Guardiola’s plans.
With a crucial match against Liverpool looming, Dias is expected to play a key role in City’s push for more silverware. His ability to perform under pressure ensures he earns a spot in the combined XI.
Left Centre Back: Virgil van Dijk
Virgil van Dijk continues to be a cornerstone of Liverpool’s defense, despite the team’s struggles at the back. The Dutchman has scored five goals this season, showing his threat in both defense and attack.
Van Dijk’s performances for the Netherlands during the international break further solidify his case for inclusion. With silverware still up for grabs, he could be the catalyst for a revival of Liverpool’s season.
Left Wing Back: Jeremy Doku
Jeremy Doku narrowly edges out Nico O’Rielly to claim the left wing-back spot. The Belgian winger has provided consistent attacking threats throughout the season, using his pace and direct running to stretch defenses.
While O’Rielly has also impressed, Doku’s overall impact and contribution to key moments in the campaign give him the advantage. His performances in the Carabao Cup final have also helped his case.
Defensive Midfield: Nico Gonzalez
Nico Gonzalez has quietly become an important figure in Manchester City’s midfield since his £60m move from Porto. His composure and ability to control the tempo of the game have made him a reliable option for Guardiola.
Despite not grabbing the headlines like some of his teammates, Gonzalez’s contributions are essential, especially as the season reaches its pivotal stage.
Defensive Midfield: Ryan Gravenberch
Ryan Gravenberch has firmly established himself as a key player for Liverpool since joining from Bayern Munich. His consistent performances have seen him outplay Curtis Jones in the combined XI.
With four goals and three assists in 29 Premier League appearances, Gravenberch has added real value to his game, making him an indispensable part of Slot’s system.
Attacking Midfield: Phil Foden
Phil Foden earns his place in the front three for Manchester City, just ahead of Bernardo Silva. Despite a dip in form recently, the stats suggest that Foden remains a key player for Guardiola.
His performances against Liverpool have been impressive, and with the season reaching its climax, he is expected to deliver in crucial moments.
Attacking Midfield: Rayan Cherki
Rayan Cherki edges out Florian Wirtz for a starting spot in the attacking midfield. His consistent influence and impressive stats—11 assists and nine goals across all competitions—make him a strong contender.
Although he hasn’t scored in the FA Cup yet, Cherki’s overall impact and value for his club make him a worthy inclusion in the XI.
Striker: Erling Haaland
Erling Haaland completes the front line for Manchester City, and for good reason. The Norwegian striker has continued to deliver in front of goal, with a strong record against Liverpool.
Despite not having faced them in the FA Cup yet, Haaland remains a key figure for City as they aim to add more silverware to their collection. His performances this season, alongside the struggles of other strikers, make his inclusion inevitable.
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