Carragher tells Iraola to harness Anfield tension against Manchester City

Jamie Carragher has encouraged Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola to make full use of the Anfield atmosphere when Manchester City visit on Sunday, October 11. The match will be City’s first since the Premier League found the club guilty on 114 of 115 charges, most concerning alleged financial-rule breaches. City have appealed and continue to rely on what they describe as comprehensive evidence supporting their position.

Liverpool are expected to face City in a strongly partisan stadium. The clubs competed directly for the Premier League title from 2018 to 2024, when Liverpool were managed by Jürgen Klopp, while Manuel Pellegrini’s City also finished ahead of the Reds in the 2013/14 title race. If the verdict stands, possible sanctions range from a league suspension and points deductions to relegation, expulsion, compensation orders, replayed matches and the removal of titles.

Carragher said Iraola could use the issue to energise supporters and help Liverpool maintain their unbeaten start to the 2026/27 campaign. Erling Haaland, speaking after previously being withdrawn from international-break media duties, urged City supporters to remain united, positive and optimistic ahead of the match. He also said he feels closely connected to the club’s fans. Maresca, meanwhile, said the squad’s mood remained excellent despite the pressure surrounding the club.

ColdMath take

Liverpool have an opportunity to turn a charged home atmosphere into an early test of Iraola’s influence. City’s response will also be closely watched after the verdict and appeal.

The match could show whether Liverpool’s unbeaten run can withstand a high-pressure opponent and whether Anfield becomes a meaningful tactical factor under the new manager.