Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola was frustrated against Liverpool by one aspect of his team’s performance despite their emphatic 3–0 victory at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
The win marked Guardiola’s 1,000th match as a manager and reduced Arsenal’s lead at the top of the Premier League to four points.
Goals from Erling Haaland, Nico Gonzalez, and Jeremy Doku sealed a comfortable result for the Sky Blues, who continue to keep pressure on Mikel Arteta’s side heading into the international break.
City looked unstoppable for large parts of the contest, outclassing an unusually sluggish Liverpool team under Arne Slot.
The reigning champions struggled to cope with the hosts’ pace and intensity, particularly in the first half when Haaland’s early strike set the tone for a one-sided affair.
But even in celebration, Pep Guardiola was frustrated against Liverpool. The Catalan manager, though delighted with the result and the occasion, was far from pleased with how his team handled parts of the second half.
“I didn’t like the second half against Liverpool,” Guardiola admitted while speaking to BBC Match Of The Day
“But we did a fantastic week for us! I’m really pleased for the game. Just a thank you to the players, staff for giving me that incredible present — to win against the most important opponent that we faced in our 10 years here, by far.”
Guardiola’s perfectionism persists even in milestone win
For most managers, a 3–0 victory over Liverpool would represent an ideal afternoon. But Guardiola’s comments revealed that his relentless pursuit of improvement remains intact even after a milestone achievement.
Manchester City were almost flawless in the opening 45 minutes, dominating possession, controlling transitions, and suffocating Liverpool’s attempts to press.
Doku and Gonzalez continually stretched the visitors’ defence, while Haaland’s ruthless finish reminded everyone why he remains the most feared striker in England.
After the break, however, City’s rhythm dipped. Liverpool began to find more of the ball, and although they rarely threatened Donnarumma’s goal, Pep Guardiola was frustrated and visibly animated on the touchline as his side struggled to regain their earlier fluidity.
City’s latest victory came on the back of a 4–1 demolition of Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League, a result that left them well on course for the Round of 16.
“It has been nice playing against them (Liverpool) and seeing Virgil (van Dijk) and (Andy) Robertson, all the players, Mo Salah – that we’ve been in a thousand, million battles,” Guardiola said with a smile.
“And hopefully there will be more and more doing it against them, because it has been so special!”
Guardiola also took a moment to acknowledge the history between the two clubs, reflecting on a rivalry that has defined much of his City tenure.
Though Liverpool now have a new man in charge following Jurgen Klopp’s departure, Guardiola said the German shared similarities with his former assist now working at Man City.
“And I think Pep (Pepijn) Lijnders represents a little bit Jurgen (Klopp) because he has been there, so it’s been a special night, with my kids here,” he added.
The result further underlined City’s reputation as the most consistent side in the Premier League’s modern era.
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Eleven wins from their last 14 matches in all competitions have placed them in a commanding position both domestically and in Europe.
As the international break approaches, Guardiola knows the challenge that lies ahead.
With Arsenal continuing to win and Liverpool still a dangerous opponent despite their struggles, City cannot afford to lose focus.
Their next Premier League fixture — a demanding trip to Newcastle United — promises to be a significant test.
St James’ Park has rarely been an easy venue for Guardiola’s side, and with Eddie Howe’s team eager to respond to recent inconsistent form, City will need to produce another high-level performance to maintain their pursuit of the league leaders.
