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City's 3-0 victory served as a stark warning to Premier League leaders Arsenal, whose lead was trimmed to four points, while it dealt a significant blow to Liverpool and their aspirations for consecutive titles.
Guardiola faced significant challenges last season as he tried to guide City through a difficult period, ending their remarkable streak of four consecutive titles, raising doubts about the 54-year-old Spaniard's capacity to rebuild the team.
Following years of near-constant triumph with Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and City, was Guardiola still motivated to forge another championship-winning squad?
This performance delivered a resounding response from Guardiola and his players, showcasing a display that was brilliant, perilous, and imbued with the intensity and energy indicating that City is indeed prepared to compete for the Premier League trophy once more.
If Guardiola had asked for a gesture from City's players to honor their influential manager on his special day, this match was the ideal offering.
Guardiola acknowledged this sentiment, remarking: "I just want to extend my gratitude to the players and backroom staff for this gift. I feel proud to achieve it here in Manchester with my City."
The spectacle was far from celebratory for Arsenal, and painfully so for Liverpool.
Although Arsenal remains in the lead, it's important to note that this is just after 11 matches, and City have previously demonstrated their talent for making opponents feel the pressure closely behind them.
Following Arsenal's dropped points late in their match against Sunderland on Saturday, an opportunity was presented. City capitalized on this moment with a stunning performance.
For Liverpool, this match was a harsh reality check.
It was at the Etihad Stadium last February that Liverpool's 2-0 victory secured a double over City, effectively determining the title race.
In stark contrast, this game’s result and performance showed a completely different story. Liverpool found themselves overwhelmed by a rejuvenated City.
Although this defeat does not eliminate their chances of retaining their title—given that the season is still only 11 games old—it becomes increasingly challenging to envision Liverpool mounting a serious title challenge in their current condition, especially after suffering their fifth loss in six league matches.
"A harsh lesson for Liverpool"
City exploited Liverpool's weak midfield and defensive structure throughout the match, similar to what others have done this season.
Manager Slot expressed discontent regarding Virgil van Dijk's goal, which would have leveled the score at 1-1 before halftime, being ruled out for offside.
Defender Andy Robertson, who was clearly offside, interfered in front of City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, allowing the ball to drift in. Many believed Robertson's presence had no impact on the play, suggesting the goal should have been valid, but ultimately, the Reds were taught a harsh lesson.
Once Nico Gonzalez's deflected shot brought the score to 2-0 just before the half, the match was effectively decided.
Guardiola appears revitalized by the challenge of getting City back on track after a disappointing prior season, assembling a versatile attack capable of securing victories in any match—led by the incredible Haaland.
The opening goal on Sunday showcased the creativity that defines Guardiola's coaching style, presenting a magical moment that aptly celebrated his significant occasion. This goal will undoubtedly be remembered as a true work of art.
City skillfully escaped the pressure exerted by Liverpool near their corner flag, executing an impressive series of passes that advanced them from defense to attack.
This display of Guardiola's philosophy culminated in a familiar high note, with Haaland rising above Liverpool's Ibrahima Konate to connect with Matheus Nunes' cross, delivering a header past goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili.
Nunes’ cross, which set up Haaland's header, was the 19th pass in this intricate movement that elegantly sliced through the Liverpool defense before achieving its final flourish.
This sequence could serve as a testament to Guardiola's approach to football.
Haaland had earlier missed a chance to put City in the lead when his penalty was saved by Mamardashvili after the keeper had been adjudged to have fouled Jeremy Doku. However, it wasn't long before the extraordinary striker netted his 99th goal in the Premier League.
Doku epitomizes the transformation of this new City side.
At 23 years old, he has evolved from a winger with undeniable talent, yet inconsistent performances, to the key player driving much of their best play this season.
He thoroughly challenged Conor Bradley, who had an impressive outing against Real Madrid in the Champions League, leaving him struggling against Doku's speed and strength—no one could effectively handle the Belgian in his current form.
Doku was virtually unstoppable, now fully realizing his potential after adapting to Guardiola's high expectations following his £55.4m transfer from Rennes in August 2023.
Rayan Cherki provides finesse in the midfield, while Phil Foden has returned to his exceptional form and Bernardo Silva continues to demonstrate his cleverness in keeping City's momentum going.
It was a decisive victory in every aspect, serving as a significant point of reflection for Arsenal and their coach Mikel Arteta, who was once Guardiola's assistant, during the international break.
For Liverpool, this match marked a sobering reality following their recent resurgence.
They now find themselves in the eighth position, trailing Arsenal by eight points and City by four, with their momentum stalling. Liverpool's five defeats this season surpass the four losses they endured during their title-winning campaign.
Additionally, there are concerning indications that Liverpool has yet to integrate the nearly £450m influx of new players from the summer transfer window.
Hugo Ekitike, recognized as one of the achievements, was restrained here, while fellow striker Alexander Isak, valued at £125m, did not see any play after being out for three weeks due to a groin issue.
It was yet another day filled with struggle and disappointment for £116m midfielder Florian Wirtz, whose challenges were exacerbated by the jeers from City’s supporters, recalling how he opted for a move to Liverpool from Bayer Leverkusen rather than joining the Etihad Stadium.
At this point, Wirtz is clearly finding it difficult to cope with the physical demands of the Premier League. His talent is evident, but frequently he is too easily dispossessed of the ball.
This is a situation he will need to adapt to and find ways to counter. The inevitable taunts came in the form of a chant of "what a waste of money" from ecstatic home fans as he was substituted for Federico Chiesa just seven minutes before the end of the match.
On the other hand, Guardiola enjoyed the victory and anticipated the matches that would come after the international break.
"Now it’s time to rest and return with renewed energy," he stated, while also reflecting on the journey that led him to this remarkable stage of his coaching career.
"I believe my time at Barcelona B laid the groundwork for many things. It helped me realize that I was capable of doing it and allowed me to learn extensively.
"I will always remember the players from that initial season. It was immensely special for me to reach 1,000 games in front of my family, particularly against Liverpool. I hold that club in great esteem."
This was a day of celebration for Guardiola, and City ensured it would be a memorable occasion.
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