Liverpool are arguably the best team in the world right now, operating at a level far above their European rivals. Still competing on three fronts, the squad is in perfect sync, fully committed to the manager’s vision. While recent draws against Everton and Aston Villa were minor setbacks, they haven’t dented their title ambitions.
Now, facing Manchester City, Liverpool had the chance to establish a commanding 11-point lead over second-placed Arsenal—and they delivered. With the Reds maintaining such high standards, the Premier League title already feels within their grasp.
From the very first whistle, Liverpool were a step ahead of Guardiola’s side, dictating the tempo and dominating the attacking play. Their relentless pressure left Manchester City fortunate not to have conceded more than two goals in the first half. Dominik Szoboszlai opened the scoring in the 14th minute after Mohamed Salah disrupted City’s rhythm to seize possession. Salah then returned the favour in the 37th minute, delivering a sublime assist for Szoboszlai to double Liverpool’s lead. From that moment, it was effectively game over for City, as the Reds put on a commanding display.
Liverpool remained the dominant force after the break, controlling possession and comfortably securing the win. Curtis Jones wasted no time in extending their advantage, finishing off a well-worked move in the 56th minute. A quick VAR check confirmed the goal, further cementing Liverpool’s grip on the game.
Despite several attacking substitutions, City struggled to break through Liverpool’s resilient defence. Alisson produced crucial saves to deny Omar Marmoush and Jérémy Doku, while the Reds remained a constant threat on the counter. Salah and Luis Díaz tested Ederson further, and Andy Robertson came close to adding a third.
With the game firmly in their grasp, Liverpool managed proceedings expertly. The introductions of Wataru Endo and Konstantinos Tsimikas added extra stability, frustrating City’s efforts to mount a comeback. As the final whistle blew, the Reds walked away with a dominant victory—one that reinforced their place at the top of the Premier League.
This is how we think Liverpool players fared in the game against Manchester City
Liverpool Starting XI
Alisson Becker: 7/10
He made some crucial saves, particularly against Marmoush and Foden, keeping Liverpool in control. Commanded his box well
Trent Alexander Arnold: 7/10
He kept things tidy defensively and contributed to Liverpool’s build-up play. He wasn’t as adventurous in attack as usual but did his job well
Ibrahima Konaté: 8/10
Solid at the back, making key clearances and winning duels. Nearly scored from a corner but remained a commanding presence.
Virgil van Dijk: 8/10
Led the defence with authority, making crucial blocks and interceptions. His experience was vital in keeping City at bay.
Andrew Robertson: 7/10
Had a couple of decent crosses and helped contain City’s threats from wide areas.
Alexis Mac Allister: 6/10
Had an injury scare but continued playing. Kept things ticking in midfield but wasn’t overly influential.
Ryan Gravenberch: 6/10
Put in a hard-working shift but didn’t have a standout impact on the game. Helped maintain midfield structure.
Mohamed Salah: 9/10
Scored the opening goal and was a threat throughout. Linked up well with teammates and forced City’s defence into mistakes. Egyptian king for a reason. Father of Manchester City
Dominik Szoboszlai: 9/10
One of Liverpool’s standout players. Scored the second goal and was lively throughout, constantly finding space and driving forward.
Curtis Jones: 6/10
Capped off a strong performance with a goal. Contributed defensively and played a key role in Liverpool’s pressing. Was unlucky to saw his goal ruled out for offside.
Luis Díaz: 7/10
Lively down the left flank, tested Ederson a couple of times and worked hard off the ball before being subbed off.
Substitutes
Tsimikas: 5/10
Came on to see out the game and did his job defensively.
Wataru Endo: 6/10
Provided fresh legs in midfield, offering a bit more stability. Some minutes finally for the Japanese
