Paul Merson says Manchester City are “not going to win the Champions League” playing with “two holding midfielders in defence,” and he reckons Liverpool are still the “team to beat”.
Raheem Sterling struck three times in the space of just 11 second-half minutes as City, who trailed early in the match, ran out 5-1 winners in the Group C clash at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday.
The Citizens are favourites to win the Champions League despite Liverpool, the holders, currently leading Pep Guardiola’s men by six points in the Premier League.
However, Merson thinks that City will have to get Aymeric Laporte back fit if they are to challenge for the trophy.
“City are a very good team, but they are not going to win the Champions League, playing against the best teams in Europe, with two holding midfielders in defence,” Merson told Sky Sports.
“They need Aymeric Laporte back. I thought Juventus would be one of the dangers, but I watched them the other night and they are not going to win it.
“When Bayern Munich rinsed Tottenham the other week, I didn’t think they were the team to beat. I didn’t think that at all if I’m being honest. I thought they looked quite open.
“I still think Liverpool are the team to beat. They lost in the final two seasons ago and then won it last season. Who’s got better form than that?
“They hardly ever lose at home, if ever. No one wants to go and play at Anfield. I still think Liverpool will be there or thereabouts come the end of the competition.”
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