Manchester City defender Kyle Walker has issued a stern warning to his teammates, cautioning that they risk being “walked over” by Liverpool if they fail to improve ahead of their crucial Premier League clash next weekend.

Walker’s comments followed a dismal 4-0 home defeat to Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday, marking the fifth consecutive loss for Pep Guardiola’s side, a streak not seen since 2006. The result leaves Manchester City five points behind league leaders Liverpool, who could widen the gap to eight points with a win against Southampton on Sunday.

Reflecting on the loss, Walker admitted that the team’s performance fell far short of expectations. Speaking to Sky Sports, he emphasized the significance of the upcoming fixtures.

“It’s a great game to turn it around and take three points from the team who sit above you,” Walker said. “But we can’t put in a performance like that or we’ll get walked over.”

Before their showdown at Anfield, Manchester City must first navigate a critical Champions League fixture against Feyenoord on Tuesday. Walker highlighted the importance of staying focused and bouncing back from their recent slump.

“We have a Champions League game to prepare for that massive game on Sunday and keep within touching distance of Liverpool,” he added.

The clash at Anfield next Sunday is shaping up to be pivotal in the Premier League title race, as City look to regain momentum and close the gap on their Merseyside rivals.