Gvardiol is one of the most adventurous fullbacks in the Premier League, evidenced by the fact he’s scored five goals from Manchester City this season whilst averaging 1.45 shots per 90. Initially signed as a centre back, Pep Guardiola has recognised the promising attacking ability that Gvardiol can offer in transforming him into the player we see today. He could be key in this game when he does push forward into forward areas where he’ll be faced by the equally as attacking Trent Alexander Arnold as well as having the threat of Mohammed Salah to manage. Liverpool’s press can be really intense, Arne Slot’s side are averaging 11.7 fouls committed per game in the Premier League this season. 

Gvardiol has won 16 fouls across his 24 Premier League appearances this season (0.68 per 90), this alone isn’t the most convincing evidence but given his willingness to push up into forward areas, he will pose a problem to the Liverpool backline. He’ll be up against Mohammed Salah which is sure to prove a crucial 1v1 battle in this game, Salah is averaging 0.66 fouls committed per 90 across his 26 Premier League appearances this season which when paired with Trent Alexander Arnold’s 0.43 fouls committed per 90 offers promise in dragging Gvardiol to the ground at least once here. Gvardiol was fouled once in Manchester City’s most recent Premier League outing against Newcastle. 

There is real value with this selection when placing with PaddyPower, the same bet is 1.57 with SkyBet suggesting that Gvardiol is quite generously priced to be fouled at least once here. The Croatian’s side of the pitch will be crucial in deciding the outcome of this heavyweight clash which should see a few fouls traded from each side leading to an increase in Gvardiol’s average in the Premier League this season.