High lines and counters: the tactics that could decide Liverpool v Manchester City

Erling Haaland in action during Manchester City’s 1-1 draw with Liverpool. Pep Guardiola may resist playing directly to his forward in a bid to protect against Liverpool breaks. Photograph: Tom Jenkins/The Guardian

Núñez and the high line

Pep Guardiola sides have always had a vulnerability to balls played in behind their defensive line. It is inherent in the high press that makes his teams so good at regaining possession: you cannot have one without the other (which is one of football’s enduring strengths as a sport: no positive comes entirely without a negative; there is no “best” way to play).