In a much-anticipated match between Pep Guardiola’s reigning Premier League champions, Manchester City, and their arch-rivals Liverpool, it was the latter who came out on top with a 2-0 win. Many saw this result coming due to City’s recent poor form. This marked Manchester City’s sixth loss in their past seven matches and Liverpool’s first victory against City in two years.
As if that wasn’t enough, it was also the first time Manchester City had lost four consecutive Premier League matches since August 2008. Liverpool capitalized on their early pressure, taking the lead in the 12th minute through Cody Gakpo, who converted from close range following Mohamed Salah’s pinpoint ball across the goal.
Later in the match, Stefan Ortega, standing in for City’s out-of-form Brazilian goalkeeper Ederson, brought down Luis Diaz in the penalty area. Mohamed Salah stepped up and scored in the 78th minute, giving Liverpool a comfortable two-goal cushion. Despite City’s attempts to fight back, they failed to find the net. After Matchweek 13, Liverpool leads the Premier League table with a nine-point advantage, while City, trailing the leaders by 11 points, sits in fifth place.
What Went Wrong for Manchester City?
Manchester City’s recent slump is shocking. From title contenders to struggling for form, something seems off behind the scenes, and the gap to Liverpool continues to widen. Fans and pundits alike are left questioning what has gone wrong.
Some fans attribute City’s struggles to arrogance. During a hotly contested match against Arsenal on September 22, 2024, which ended in a 2-2 draw, footage circulated of City’s star striker Erling Haaland telling Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta: “Stay humble, eeh.” Some believe City’s recent misfortunes are divine punishment for this perceived arrogance, although others dismiss this as far-fetched.
Football experts suggest that such fluctuations in form are normal, especially in a highly competitive league like the Premier League, which features some of the best managers and players in the world. City’s challenges have been compounded by the absence of key players like star midfielder Rodri and defender Ruben Dias. Although Dias has returned, he finds himself in a team where many players seem to have lost their form.
However, one fan on X (formerly Twitter) speculated that City might be losing intentionally to divert attention from their ongoing 115 charges. “To be fair, I think they’re losing on purpose so everyone would take their eyes off their ongoing 115 charges. In simple terms, they’re trying to act like their current losses prove they never cheated before,” the fan wrote.