By Martin Graham
Manchester City he delivered a resounding message of intent on Pep Guardiola’s 1,000th match as manager by going over. Liverpool 3-0 at the Etihad Stadium. The trimmed result Arsenal’s lead at the top of the Premier League with four points and deepened Liverpool’s problems as their title defense faltered again.
For Guardiola, whose side stumbled last season after four straight La Liga triumphs, this performance served as a stark reminder that City remain a formidable force. Questions had been raised about whether the Spanish manager still had the will to rebuild another winning team after years of consistent success with Barcelona, ​​Bayern Munich and City.
The answer came forcefully. His players produced a dazzling display that mixed control, creativity and intensity, a fitting tribute to their coach’s historic occasion. Guardiola described the victory as “the perfect gift”, praised his squad and staff for their efforts and expressed pride in reaching this milestone in Manchester.
The brilliance of City and the discovery of Liverpool
The win was an overwhelming experience for Liverpool, whose previous visit to the Etihad had seen them claim a 2-0 victory and effectively seal the title. This time, they were outplayed from start to finish by a revitalized City side.
Arsenal remain top after 11 games, but City’s relentless form suggests they are once again ready to chase down any leaders. After Arsenal’s draw at Sunderland, City took advantage ruthlessly to close the gap in dominant fashion.
Liverpool, meanwhile, have lost five of their last six league games. Coach Arne Slot regretted the disallowed goal Virgil van Dijk A header that could have leveled the scores before the break, but City’s superiority left little doubt about the result. Andy Robertson’s offside position in front of the goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma ruled out the tie, and moments later Nico González’s a deflected strike doubled City’s lead.
Guardiola’s philosophy in motion
The first goal encapsulated everything about Guardiola’s football ideology. Starting near their own corner flag, City put together a sequence of 19 passes that cut through Liverpool’s lines of pressure. The movement concluded with Matthew Nunes delivering a spot cross for Erling Haalandwhich drove a head further Giorgi Mamardashvili.
Haaland had earlier seen his penalty saved after a foul by Mamardashvili Jeremy Dokubut the Norwegian made no mistake the second time around, registering his 99th Premier League goal. The complexity of the build-up was a masterclass in Guardiola’s approach: fluid, patient and ruthlessly effective.
Doku shines, City attack flourishes
Among City’s many standouts, Jeremy Doku was outstanding. The Belgian winger, once criticized for inconsistency, tormented Liverpool’s right wing with his pace and strength. Conor Bradleyso impressive in recent weeks, he struggled to contain him as Doku repeatedly created openings.
Since joining from Rennes in 2023, Doku has adapted to Guardiola’s tactical demands and is now blossoming as one of England’s most dangerous players. around him, Ryan Cherki he offered finesse in midfield, Phil Foden rediscovered his spark and Bernardo Silva orchestrated the game with his characteristic intelligence.
Together, they formed a dynamic attacking unit that overwhelmed Liverpool and reminded opponents that City’s depth and creativity remain unmatched.
Liverpool’s worries grow
For Liverpool, the defeat highlighted ongoing struggles despite a major summer investment of almost £450m in new players. Hugo Ekitike was quiet, while £125m signing Alexander Isak remained on the bench following a recent injury. Florian Wirtz endured another difficult outing, visibly frustrated and unable to prevail against City’s physical dominance.
The young German’s discomfort has been compounded by the taunts of the home fans, who have reminded him of his decision to reject a move to City in favor of Liverpool. Chants of “what a waste of money” followed when he was replaced late on Federico Chiesa.
Liverpool now sit eighth in the table, eight points behind Arsenal and four behind City, with concerns growing over their management.
Guardiola reflects on the trip
After the match, Guardiola expressed gratitude and nostalgia as he reflected on his managerial journey. He credited his early years with Barcelona B as the basis of his career, describing this period as vital for his development and confidence as a coach.
“It was very special to reach 1,000 games in front of my family, especially against Liverpool,” he said. “I have great respect for this club.”
For Guardiola and City, it was a day of celebration, dominance and renewed purpose, a powerful signal that the champions are far from finished.
