Liverpool extend Premier League lead as Man City’s struggles deepen

Liverpool moved nine points clear at the top of the Premier League with a 2-0 victory over Manchester City at Anfield, intensifying the defending champions’ struggles.

Cody Gakpo’s early strike and Mohamed Salah’s late penalty sealed the win, pushing City down to fifth place, 11 points behind the Reds.

City’s current four-match losing streak in the league is their worst since 2008, making them the first reigning champions to endure such a run. Despite Pep Guardiola’s history of overcoming deficits, this challenge appears more daunting, as City’s seven-game winless run marks the longest of his career.

Liverpool, under new manager Arne Slot, have been dominant, winning 18 of 20 matches across all competitions. Salah’s penalty, awarded after a foul on Luis Diaz, solidified Liverpool’s status as title favorites. City’s decision to start Stefan Ortega in place of Ederson backfired, with Gakpo scoring just 12 minutes into the game.

As Liverpool edge closer to their first league title since 2020, Guardiola remains defiant, signaling his six Premier League titles in response to taunts from Liverpool fans.