Liverpool’s ‘Slot Machine’ Rolls Over Manchester City to Go Nine Points Clear
It’s official: Liverpool are flying high at the top of the Premier League, and they’ve done it in style. With a commanding 2-0 victory over a struggling Manchester City at Anfield, the Reds have opened up a nine-point lead at the summit of the table. For City, this marks a new low under Pep Guardiola, as the reigning champions have now lost six of their last seven games. The gap between the two sides is now a staggering 11 points, and Liverpool look every bit the team to beat this season.
The game itself was a showcase of Liverpool’s dominance under new manager Arne Slot. Goals from Cody Gakpo in the 12th minute and a 78th-minute penalty from Mohamed Salah sealed the win, though the scoreline could have been far more lopsided. Liverpool’s relentless pressing and clinical execution left City chasing shadows for much of the match.
Guardiola’s Gamble Backfires
In a bid to shake things up, Guardiola made the bold decision to drop first-choice goalkeeper Éderson in favor of backup Stefan Ortega. But the move did little to inspire his team, as Liverpool dominated from the opening whistle. The loss not only sees City drop out of the top four but also sets a new all-time worst winless run for Guardiola. City’s next challenge? A midweek clash against Nottingham Forest at the Etihad, where they’ll be desperate to stop the bleeding.
Liverpool’s Slot Machine in Full Swing
“Arne’s Slot Machine” – that’s the banner Liverpool fans proudly displayed at Anfield, and it’s a fitting description of the transformation under their new boss. In just six months, Slot has taken the foundation laid by Jurgen Klopp and added his own pragmatic yet dynamic touch. Early critics claimed Slot’s Liverpool lacked the excitement of Klopp’s era, but Sunday’s performance against City proved otherwise. This team is just as thrilling to watch, but now with an added layer of organization and efficiency.
From the opening whistle, Liverpool’s front three pressed with the same ferocity that defined Klopp’s best teams. Darwin Núñez epitomized this intensity, robbing Rúben Dias to set up the move that led to Salah’s penalty. In midfield, Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister were relentless, combining ball-winning tenacity with creative flair. Add in the energy and vision of Dominik Szoboszlai, and you have a midfield trio that’s as balanced as it is dangerous.
- Key Stats: Liverpool are now nine points clear at the top of the Premier League.
- City’s Struggles: Guardiola’s side has lost six of their last seven games.
- Player to Watch: Cody Gakpo has scored six goals in his last seven games.
City’s Aging Core Exposed
One of the glaring issues for Manchester City is their aging squad, and no player exemplifies this more than Ilkay Gündogan. The 34-year-old midfielder, who returned to City after a stint at Barcelona, struggled to keep up with Liverpool’s pace and intensity. Gündogan was repeatedly harried into mistakes by Gravenberch and Mac Allister before being substituted after 57 minutes.
But Gündogan isn’t the only one showing signs of wear and tear. Kyle Walker, Nathan Aké, and Bernardo Silva also looked off the pace, raising serious questions about City’s ability to compete at the highest level with an aging core.
Gakpo’s Resurgence
Few players have thrived under Slot’s management like Cody Gakpo. The Dutchman, who started the season as Liverpool’s fifth-choice attacker, has seized his opportunity following an injury to Diogo Jota. Slot’s decision to deploy Gakpo on the left – his natural position – has paid off handsomely. His goal against City was his sixth in seven games, and his all-around performance earned him a standing ovation when he was substituted in the second half.
Haaland’s Struggles Continue
For Manchester City, the form of Erling Haaland is becoming a major concern. The Norwegian striker has scored just two Premier League goals since the end of September and was virtually invisible against Liverpool. Haaland managed just 15 touches and one chance all game, with an xG of 0.11. If City are to turn their season around, they’ll need more from their star forward than just goals in easy wins.
Salah’s Brilliance Shines Through
Once again, Mohamed Salah proved why he’s one of Liverpool’s all-time greats. The Egyptian forward notched a goal and an assist, taking his tally to 13 goals and 11 assists in all competitions this season. With his contract set to expire at the end of the season, Salah’s future remains uncertain, but his importance to Liverpool is undeniable. If he continues at this level, the Reds could be lifting the Premier League trophy once again.
Originally Written by: Mark Ogden
