They've been going at it hammer and tongs for more than seven months. And still only one point separates the Premier League's three remaining title contenders.
Now, with 10 games to go and no further international breaks with which to contend, comes the moment of truth over whether Liverpool can ensure Jurgen Klopp ends his reign as manager by claiming the championship for a second time.
Behind leaders Arsenal only on goal difference, the Reds have significantly surpassed most expectations after a disappointing previous campaign. But with Manchester City just a further point adrift in third place, the threat of Pep Guardiola's champions looms large.
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Liverpool will have the chance to land an early psychological blow by going clear at the summit on Sunday with home victory over Brighton shortly before City host Arsenal.
And at a time of the campaign where searching for signs that could point to the eventual title winners becomes an annual pursuit, there's one clear indication of the Reds and City having an advantage over their London rivals - their ability to finish a season strongly.
In the previous five seasons, only once have Liverpool dropped more than six points during the closing 10 games, when they took 20 from the available 30 in 2019/20 having already claimed a runaway championship triumph.
City, Manchester United and Chelsea were able to better Liverpool's figure that term. Otherwise, of the established big six - before Newcastle United elbowed their way in momentarily last season - only City have finished a campaign stronger than the Reds since the 2017/18 term.
In 2018/19 it was
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