Tomorrow evening at 23:30 Beijing time (CET), Liverpool will host Manchester City in a Premier League matchday 6 fixture. Ahead of the match, Iraola gave an exclusive interview to Sky Sports. In the first part of the interview (divided into three sections due to its length), he shared his thoughts on Manchester City.

Let's talk about what happened in recent weeks. Everyone knows about the turbulence surrounding Manchester City. I'd like to ask: how do you think these events will impact the dynamics of this weekend's game?

I believe it won't significantly affect our main focus. We concentrate on the football itself. Of course, we're aware there's a lot of external noise around this match, and these are the questions you're preparing to ask. But we simply need to do our job and focus on the game itself. This match is inherently high-intensity, and we've prepared for it.

So you and the players need to actively block out this external noise?

It's not about blocking out noise; it's about focusing on playing a great game, giving the fans an exciting match and an ideal result. Liverpool versus Manchester City is inherently a heavyweight clash. In recent years, matches between these two teams have always been highlights. The tension and rivalry on the pitch itself are enough to command our full attention.

Do you expect these off-field issues to further amplify the atmosphere at the stadium?

Honestly, every time we play at Anfield, the atmosphere is always incredibly passionate, and even more so in big matches like this. Sunday will certainly be the same. I have no doubt the fans will be with the team. My job is to give the fans reasons to cheer. We need everyone working together and we need the fans' support.

Several former Liverpool managers have said that if they weren't Liverpool managers and a match against Manchester City came up, they would watch it regardless of where they were. Do you feel the same?

Absolutely. This is a heavyweight clash, and although it's early in the season, everyone will be watching this match. Not just because of all the off-field rumors, but simply because it's Liverpool versus Manchester City.

Manchester City currently maintains a perfect record in the league. Given recent events, do you think these issues will motivate the opponent, creating an all-or-nothing mentality?

You should ask them that question; I can't speak for Manchester City.

But you must anticipate that, right?

My expectation for them is what they've shown this season. They're very strong, they have key leaders in the team, and they maintain a perfect Premier League record so far. I see this Manchester City team as the opponent; they'll adjust for each game, just as in any other match.

In your opinion, what are the differences between today's Manchester City and the one from the past? How do Maresca's and Guardiola's styles differ?

The differences are clear. We know Maresca well, having seen his work at Leicester City and Chelsea, and we understand his tactical approach. I think this current Manchester City team is a blend, somewhat like us: retaining the established tactics from the past while incorporating new ideas brought by the new manager. They've started the season very strongly.

Let's talk about squad condition. After the international break, Gakpo and Isak withdrew from their national teams due to injury, and Jota trained this week. What's the current status of these three players? What are their chances of playing?

The situation is basically this: Jota trained yesterday, he's fine and could play. I expect him to be available. Gakpo and Isak haven't trained yet. You saw the training footage; we released the training material yesterday without hiding anything.

No deliberate secrecy.

Exactly (laughs). They couldn't train yesterday. There are still a few days before the match, but I think it will be very difficult for them to play.

Traduzido por IA.

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