Liverpool
Alisson 9
The £65m signing is giving Liverpool what they lacked for too long. Caught out once at Leicester but otherwise a commanding and vocal presence.
Trent Alexander-Arnold 7
Celebrates his 20th birthday on the day of the game, having established himself as a key part of Jürgen Klopp’s defence. Athletic, strong, an attacking threat and Improving all the time.
Joe Gomez 8
Has seized the opportunity created by Dejan Lovren’s World Cup injury to claim a regular place. His reading of the game and alertness to danger have stood out.
Virgil van Dijk 9
Playing like someone who relishes the mantle of most expensive defender in the world. Has been imperious since arriving at Anfield. His confidence and authority rub off on those around him too.
Andy Robertson 8
The Scotland captaincy is another sign of his blossoming into one of the league’s finest left-backs. Perfect for Klopp with pace, energy and tenacity. Badly missed against Chelsea in the Carabao Cup.
James Milner 9
Liverpool spent heavily this summer to revitalise their midfield yet the 32-year-old’s position and form look stronger than ever. Subdued against Napoli, though. Klopp must hope an intense period has not caught up with him.
Jordan Henderson 6
The World Cup delayed his return: he has started only four games, with his time managed carefully. His distribution enhances Liverpool’s attacking threat when he has appeared.
Georginio Wijnaldum 8
Like Milner, the Netherlands international has thrived on increased competition and is producing the best form of his Liverpool career. Has impressed in every central midfield position this season.
Mohamed Salah 6
Has started almost identically to last season, yet modest form would not have sparked so much debate 12 months ago. Developing into one of the best players in the world, has brought extra attention on the pitch too and he has been unable to wreak havoc so far.
Roberto Firmino 7
Another who started late because of the World Cup, but needed only a few games to regain his rhythm. Superb movement and awareness, although needs his fellow strikers to capitalise on his influence.
Sadio Mané 6
Erratic. In clinical form at the start, with four goals in four games, but has not scored in the last six. Decision-making has been awry. Andy Hunter
Manchester City
Ederson 9
Difficult to recall his last mistake. One of Pep Guardiola’s most inspired signings. His pinpoint long-range passes are revolutionising the No 1 role.
Kyle Walker 7
Does not have a higher mark because, with his scintillating speed, he should be creating more. But it does mean attackers still struggle to beat him.
Aymeric Laporte 7
Caught out for Hoffenheim’s goal in Tuesday’s Champions League win but this was from the out-of-position left-back berth. Physicality is invaluable, especially when Vincent Kompany does not play.
Vincent Kompany 8
Has not made a league start since August but showed on Tuesday he can drop into the side seamlessly and this reliability plus his leadership mean he should get the nod at Liverpool.
Benjamin Mendy 6
Has upset the manager with tardiness and social media profile but continues to add an extra dimension to the team via his attacking vim. Defensively not as accomplished as Walkerbut may start if back from injury.
Fernandinho 8
Guardiola once stated that Fernandinho could operate in all outfield positions and the Brazilian is continuing to live up to that assessment virtually every game with his accomplished all-action style.
Raheem Sterling 8
Scored 18 league goals last season and is up to four this year. The winger also contributed a beautiful assist for Sergio Agüero’s second against Brighton last weekend, choosing the correct ball at the correct time.
David Silva 8
Showed a poacher’s instinct with the stabbed last-gasp winner at Hoffenheim and still seems to be improving at 32. An example to younger teammates.
Bernardo Silva 8
Kevin De Bruyne is hardly missed: this is the best way to sum up how impressive the Portuguese is in a central role for which Guardiola will select only the best.
Leroy Sané 8
Back in the side and showing the rocket-like speed that leaves defenders looking like statues. Post-Hoffenheim, Guardiola again predicted Sané can still get better.
Sergio Agüero 9
Consistently lethal. Struck an eighth goal at Hoffenheim in 10 appearances and has finally convinced Guardiola he should be the first-choice No 9 ahead of Gabriel Jesus. Jamie Jackson
