Winner: Mohamed Salah
Salah’s performance was exemplary, with an assist and a penalty, making him one of the standout figures of the match. His dazzling pass to Gakpo was a highlight, and his 23 goal contributions (11 assists, 12 goals) in just a few months prove he is in top form. At 32, Salah is in the best form of his career, showing incredible consistency.
Loser: Kyle Walker
Walker’s performance continues to decline, and his errors were glaring in the defeat. His lack of concentration on Gakpo’s goal and his involvement in the penalty was costly. Despite a week’s rest, Walker failed to perform, contributing to the team’s ongoing struggles.
Winner: Arne Slot
Liverpool’s manager, Arne Slot, demonstrated tactical brilliance, guiding Liverpool to a comprehensive victory. His team’s high-tempo, aggressive approach overwhelmed City, and his performance this season continues to impress, with several key victories, including over Madrid, Milan, and City.
Loser: Pep Guardiola
Guardiola is facing unprecedented struggles with Manchester City. The defeat to Liverpool marked his fourth consecutive league loss, a first in his 17-year managerial career. His body language on the touchline and his inability to find solutions for City’s poor form show the immense pressure he’s under.
Winner: Liverpool’s Dutchmen
Virgil van Dijk, Cody Gakpo, and Ryan Gravenberch were crucial to Liverpool’s success. Van Dijk’s dominant defensive display kept Haaland quiet, while Gakpo and Gravenberch played key roles in the attack and midfield. Van Dijk’s leadership and Gakpo’s goal were pivotal moments.
Loser: Erling Haaland
While Haaland remains the league’s top scorer, his performance against Liverpool was disappointing. He struggled to get involved in the game, touching the ball only 16 times and having limited chances on goal. His inability to score against top teams like Liverpool raises questions about his effectiveness in big matches.
SOURCES: Goal.com