Merseyside Police are reportedly stepping up security preparations ahead of Sunday’s Premier League showdown between Liverpool and Manchester City at Anfield, amid fears of possible trouble surrounding the visitors’ arrival.
According to The Sun, officers are concerned that Manchester City’s team bus could become a target as it makes its way to the stadium.
Reports indicate that social media posts have encouraged Liverpool supporters to gather outside Anfield hours before kick-off to welcome City’s players. The messages allegedly call on fans to bring flags, banners, flares, pyrotechnics and beer.
This is not the first time City’s team bus has faced problems on a trip to Anfield. One of the most serious incidents happened in 2018, before the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Liverpool, when the vehicle was attacked with bottles and bricks. The damage was so severe that the bus could no longer transport the team back to Manchester. No arrests were made over the incident.
Similar trouble was also reported during visits in 2014 and 2022.
Police have confirmed they are aware of the online posts and have assured the public that appropriate security arrangements will be in place for Sunday’s highly anticipated encounter.
During City’s visit in 2024, the team bus arrived safely after police provided an escort and adjusted the route to the stadium.
Liverpool have also told the BBC that preparations for the fixture are progressing as usual. The club explained that it routinely works alongside supporters and law enforcement agencies before every home match, adding that Sunday’s game is being handled through the same established procedures.
The fixture is attracting additional attention as Manchester City’s ongoing financial regulations case remains in the spotlight. An independent commission previously found the club guilty of breaching Premier League financial rules, a decision City subsequently appealed.
With tensions surrounding this high-profile fixture, security officials will be keen to ensure that Sunday’s clash takes place without any incidents outside Anfield.
