City won the last 3 league games at the Etihad quite dominantly - it was 5-0, 2-1 and 4-0. Liverpool will have a really tough game there without Van Dijk and Fabinho and with Matip doubtful (he was on the bench against Atalanta but it's still not decided if he'll start).
If Phillips starts, I'm sure that we will lose. Not because he's so terrible at defending but because his passing game simply is not good enough and City will force our play through him.
I really hope Matip is fit for the game, City is also missing a few good attacking options but overall is going into the game in better condition.
Personally, City's a favorite. But considering how things are going this season, a 4-0 Liverpool win would not surprise me at all.
If Phillips starts, I'm sure that we will lose. Not because he's so terrible at defending but because his passing game simply is not good enough and City will force our play through him.
I really hope Matip is fit for the game, City is also missing a few good attacking options but overall is going into the game in better condition.
Personally, City's a favorite. But considering how things are going this season, a 4-0 Liverpool win would not surprise me at all.
That 5-0 was years ago in 2017 and that 4-0 was the first match after it was clear Liverpool would win the title last season. They probably still had a hangover back then
What I try to say: I don't think that these previous matches mean that much. With Citys current form I don't see them as the favourites in that match. But as you said Liverpool has its problems in the defense, now even without VVD. So a hard match to predict. My gut tells me Liverpool will take this one but betting-wise it would probably make more sense to go for BTTS or over 2.5. 
