In a season-defining clash at Anfield, Liverpool delivered a statement victory over struggling champions Manchester City to seize control of the Premier League title race. Goals from Cody Gakpo and Mohamed Salah sealed a 2-0 win for Arne Slot’s rampant Reds, who now hold a commanding 11-point lead over their rivals.
Slot’s Machine Firing on All Cylinders
Since taking over from Jurgen Klopp in the summer, Arne Slot has transformed Liverpool into a well-oiled machine. The Dutch manager’s pragmatic approach has added a new dimension to the Reds’ high-intensity style, making them even more formidable opponents.
Against City, Liverpool’s famed front three pressed relentlessly, giving the visitors no time to settle on the ball. The hosts should have been out of sight by halftime, such was their dominance. As one Anfield banner proclaimed, “Arne’s Slot Machine” is hitting top gear at just the right time.
Gakpo Keeps on Delivering
Dutch forward Cody Gakpo has been one of the main beneficiaries of Slot’s arrival. Often a peripheral figure last season, the 25-year-old has seized his opportunity to impress in recent weeks. His well-taken opener against City was his sixth goal in seven games, underlining his growing importance to this Liverpool side.
Under Slot, Gakpo has played almost exclusively on the left; the position he excelled in for PSV Eindhoven and usually occupies for the Netherlands. Reverting to a role on the flank has paid dividends.
According to a close source
Haaland Struggles as City’s Crisis Deepens
For all of Liverpool’s brilliance, this was another dismal showing from Manchester City. Erling Haaland, so often their talisman, was anonymous throughout, registering just 15 touches and a solitary chance. When the Norwegian marksman doesn’t score, City look toothless.
Ilkay Gundogan, such a vital figure in the club’s recent successes, also struggled badly before being mercifully substituted on the hour mark. At 34, time appears to be catching up with the German midfielder. He is not alone, with several of City’s star names looking off the pace at Anfield.
Salah Contract Saga Looms Large
Amid the euphoria of this crucial win, the elephant in the room remains Mohamed Salah’s contract situation. The Egyptian, who teed up Gakpo for the opener before converting a late penalty, is out of contract in 2025 and has yet to agree a new deal.
We are almost in December and I haven’t received any offers yet to stay in the club, [so] I’m probably more out than in.
Salah told reporters after scoring in the midweek win over Southampton
On this evidence, Liverpool can ill afford to lose a player who has already registered 13 goals and 11 assists this term. If Salah maintains his current level, Slot’s men will take some stopping in their quest to bring the Premier League trophy back to Anfield.
Final Thoughts
This was a day that could come to define the 2024/25 Premier League season. Liverpool’s swashbuckling display not only put clear daylight between themselves and Man City, but also served as an emphatic statement of their title credentials.
For Pep Guardiola’s beleaguered side, the inquest will begin in earnest. Having surrendered their grip on the Premier League crown last term, City look a shadow of their former selves. Guardiola faces the biggest challenge of his reign to turn things around and reel in this impressive Liverpool outfit.
One thing is for certain: if Arne Slot’s red machine continues in this relentless manner, the rest of the Premier League could be left trailing in their wake. On the evidence of this display, it will take something special to halt their march towards a second title in three seasons.
