Manchester City's wide supply should keep AEK defending for long spells. AEK have shown connections through Majer and Pilios, while Villarreal bring retained forward receivers to Liverpool's aggressive press. Across these matches, the visiting teams' ability to connect a second pass gives them a way to relieve pressure.
City created through several suppliers against Ipswich, but Haaland supplied two distinct finishes. He played the full match before taking a late blow and remains doubtful after missing reported training; Semenyo is confirmed out. That changes the available finishing roles without removing City's creativity.
AEK's Majer-Jovic connection created a clear opening against LASK, and Pilios supplied Majer's goal against Shakhtar. Brignoli has already been playing, so Strakosha's reported non-travel is not a new goalkeeper change. I expect City territory with AEK seeking those forward connections and Marin's restarts; that's why I'm siding with AEK Athens to keep the margin close.
Liverpool retain Wirtz, Barcola and Isak, plus Gravenberch's returning midfield function. Villarreal changed nine starters against Elche, preserving central and forward options for this contest. Moreno and Mikautadze offer receivers for the first outlet, with Moleiro able to carry the next attack.
Frimpong and Szoboszlai are new losses after appearing at Brentford, removing specific recent supply and pressing options. Munoz remains a doubt, while Buchanan's training return is not required for the Villarreal case. I expect Liverpool's strongest territorial spell early and a meaningful visiting response through fresher connections later; that's why I'm siding with Villarreal to keep the margin close.
