On Matchday 10 of the Premier League, an exciting clash at the Etihad saw Manchester City triumph 3-0 over Liverpool, marking the worst league defeat for Arne Slott since he took charge. It was a memorable night for Josep Guardiola as he celebrated his 1,000th match as a manager, with City eager to capitalize on Arsenal’s draw against Sunderland the previous day to secure second place in the standings.
The match commenced with City establishing clear dominance, leading in nearly all statistical categories during the first half. City earned an early penalty when Jeremy Doku was brought down by Liverpool goalkeeper Giorgi Mamadashvili, but the Georgian redeemed himself by saving Erling Haaland’s attempt. Haaland, who was on the brink of becoming the fastest player to reach 100 Premier League goals, didn’t dwell on the setback; he quickly rebounded to score with a well-placed header in the 29th minute.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 9: Erling Haaland of Manchester City jumps to take a header during the Premier League match between Manchester City and Liverpool at Etihad Stadium on November 9, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo credit: Simon Stacpoole/Offside/Offside via Getty Images)
(Simon Stackpool/Offside via Getty Images)
Virgil van Dijk seemed poised to equalize in the 37th minute with a header from a corner, but the goal was disallowed due to Andy Robertson being offside in the path of City’s goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. It was a contentious decision for Liverpool, as there wasn’t sufficient evidence to indicate Robertson interfered with Donnarumma’s ability to stop the shot. Nevertheless, City managed to hold on as Liverpool continued to struggle.
Things worsened for Slott’s team just before halftime when City scored again from a deflected shot by Nico Gonzalez in stoppage time, making it 2-0 as a fatigued Liverpool headed into the break.
Initial signs of Liverpool’s revival appeared early in the second half, but hopes faded when Doku netted a stunning third goal in the 63rd minute. Ultimately, Manchester City celebrated a convincing victory, moving into second place in the standings, just four points behind Arsenal.
In other Sunday matches, Aston Villa defeated Bournemouth 4-0 at home, while Brentford came from behind to claim a 3-1 victory over Newcastle United, and Nottingham Forest secured a 3-1 win against Leeds United, continuing Sean Dyche’s rebuilding efforts.
The previous Saturday featured a thrilling 2-2 draw between Sunderland and league leaders Arsenal, who salvaged a point thanks to Brian Bobby’s stoppage-time equalizer. Chelsea beat Wolverhampton 3-0, while West Ham edged Burnley 3-2 for their second consecutive win. The day kicked off with a dramatic 2-2 draw between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United, with all four goals coming in the final 12 minutes.
winner
Jeremy Doku: There’s no denying that Guardiola’s squad is back in form. Celebrating his 1,000th match, Guardiola enjoyed a solid 3-0 victory over Liverpool as City notched their seventh win in the last eight competitive matches. Doku was a standout performer, causing constant problems for Liverpool and scoring a remarkable goal, although it was disappointing to see him substituted in the 73rd minute, much to Connor Bradley’s delight.
At just 23 years old and having joined in 2023, Doku’s performance showcased why many believe this season will be his breakout year.
Unai Emery: Aston Villa’s manager faced Bournemouth on Sunday, seeking to bounce back after a loss to Manchester City. Emery’s game plan proved effective as his team displayed strength and determination, dominating Bournemouth and exposing their vulnerabilities with a stunning performance.
Alejandro Garnacho: The Argentine winger excelled in Chelsea’s 3-0 win over Wolves, recording two assists; it marked his first time achieving this feat in a Premier League match. This encapsulated a great week for him, which included scoring a fantastic goal to help secure a point against Qarabag in the Champions League.
loser
Arne Slott: After two consecutive wins against Aston Villa and Real Madrid, Slott’s side endured a heartbreaking defeat, their most significant league loss to date. The team struggled against a cohesive Manchester City, and the upcoming international break arrives at a critical moment for the Dutch manager, who is aware that improvements are essential.
Newcastle United: Newcastle’s dismal away form continued as Eddie Howe’s team fell 3-1 to Brentford, marking their third straight Premier League away defeat. Despite Dan Byrne’s red card, the loss was not solely attributed to being a man down; Newcastle’s overall performance has been inadequate, raising concerns about their prospects for European football.
As soccer fans, the implications of this match extend beyond the result, highlighting the fierce competition in the Premier League and the need for top clubs to maintain consistent form. Guardiola’s impressive milestone and the resurgence of City signal a pivotal moment in the title race, leaving fans eager to witness how this will unfold in the coming weeks.
