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Jose Mourinho gives a telling verdict on the Premier League title race as Liverpool smell blood

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By Siddharth Juyal

Jose Mourinho predicts a close-fought battle for the Premier League title between Liverpool and Manchester City

Former Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho predicted a two-way battle between Liverpool and Manchester City for the Premier League title. Liverpool are currently second in the Premier League table behind league-leaders Arsenal while Man City lies in fourth position.

Mourinho shunned the idea of Arsenal being a serious contender going forward while giving an edge to City over Liverpool. Many argued that the former Chelsea manager holds personal disdain against the Gunners, compromising his objective judgment in prediction.

However, Mourinho made a valid argument about City, citing their depth in the squad helping them through congested fixture period. Meanwhile, Liverpool have suffered injuries to crucial players in recent matches while Andy Robertson and Joel Matip remain long-term absentees.

Jose Mourinho predicts a close-fought battle for the Premier League title between Liverpool and Manchester City.
Liverpool centre-back Joel Matip will miss the rest of the season due to the injury he sustained against Fulham. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

The Reds’ steep rise to the top after last season’s struggle has surprised many football fans and experts. Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp used the summer transfer window to make multiple midfield signings, selling the players past their best.

Speaking on The Obi One Podcast (h/t Mirror), Mourinho delivered his prediction in percentages, giving a slight edge to City. He said:

“I would say Man City 51 [per cent], and Liverpool 49 [per cent]. And I say 51, 49 because when the accumulation of matches are coming Man City has two teams.”

The depth in the squad is going to play a crucial role as we head into the congested fixture period. The Reds are currently competing in all the competitions despite their hindrance with squad depth and injuries.

Liverpool drew 0-0 to their historic rivals United in the Northwest derby match at Anfield this past Sunday. The result drew displeasure from the Kopites and football pundits as the Reds failed to break their rivals.

The Reds dominated with 69% of the possession but failed to break the United’s defence while registering 34 shots. Liverpool have struggled with a lack of composure in front of goal and lapses in concentration during the defensive phases.

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The Reds have achieved several comeback victories in many matches this season after conceding the first goal of the game. It is speculative if Klopp will use the January transfer window but it’s safe to say that Liverpool needs recruitment if they want to compete for the title.