Arne Slot, Liverpool’s manager, has cautioned against complacency despite his team’s significant 2-0 victory over Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.
While the win opens up an 11-point lead at the top of the Premier League table, Slot emphasised the league’s competitive nature, stating that no lead is safe.
He acknowledged the magnitude of winning away at City, particularly given their recent dominance, but pointed to the challenges posed by teams across the league, including their recent FA Cup exit at the hands of Plymouth Argyle and a tough encounter against relegation-threatened Wolves.
Slot reiterated that his team must work hard for every win, regardless of their league position, and that the fans’ chants of “we are going to win the league” do not distract him from the task at hand.
He stressed that in any other league, such a lead might be considered comfortable, but the Premier League presents unique challenges in every match.
Pep Guardiola, Manchester City’s manager, acknowledged his team’s improved performance against Liverpool compared to their recent struggles, despite the 2-0 defeat.
He highlighted their greater possession and shot count but lamented the absence of Erling Haaland and the lack of a decisive final touch.
Guardiola praised the performances of Jeremy Doku and Savinho but felt that the team lacked “magic” in the final third.
He also pointed to the positive signs shown by several young players and January signings, including Omar Marmoush, Nico Gonzalez, Abdukodir Khusanov, Doku, Savinho, Rico Lewis, and Phil Foden, suggesting that they represent the future of the club.
Guardiola believes that these younger players, alongside established stars like Kevin De Bruyne and Nathan Ake, will form the core of the team for years to come.
