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Roy Keane has weighed in on Liverpool’s Premier League title hopes following a tough defeat to Manchester City.
Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City produced a commanding performance as Erling Haaland opened the scoring with a first-half header shortly after having a penalty saved. Nico Gonzalez added a second just before halftime, and Jeremy Doku, the standout player of the match, sealed the victory with a stunning long-range strike in the 63rd minute.
For Arne Slot, it was a day to forget, giving him a long two weeks to reflect during the November international break as Liverpool fell further behind the league leaders and delivered a performance that leaves few believing that the Reds can defend their Premier League title.
Speaking on Sky Sports Keane believes Liverpool will struggle to keep up with Arsenal and City in the title race. "You can't be considering Liverpool for the title," said Keane. "That was a sore defeat. But this reminded me of City of old. They were outstanding. They are back in the mix."
Daniel Sturridge and Gary Neville were also in agreement that the Reds were outplayed by Guardiola's side. Neville said: "It was about which of these two clubs were going to emerge as Arsenal's nearest challengers and could they send a message to the Gunners.
"Pep Guardiola, in his 1000th game as a manager, his team and his staff, have done that. It's a really good day for Guardiola and Man City, but it's a difficult day for Arne Slot and Liverpool."
Sturridge added: "Tactically, they outdid Liverpool today. The way they pressed was magnificent, they caused a big problem for Liverpool's build-up. The performances of the Liverpool players? They were miles off what they're used to be. If they're honest with themselves, they're going to know they haven't played at their level. Man City were magnificent."
Before the match, Slot had noted that Liverpool had recently performed better against teams using a shorter passing style, and a similar approach was expected against City. However, Guardiola’s side avoided the mistakes they had made against Aston Villa and Real Madrid, playing with confidence and purpose.
The hosts dominated possession, physically imposing themselves on Liverpool, with Doku wreaking havoc on the left, Phil Foden orchestrating play in midfield, and City’s defenders comfortably handling any balls played to Hugo Ekitike.
After a slow start, the game sprang to life in the 12th minute when slack defending from Ibrahima Konate allowed Doku to drive into the box. He was clipped by Giorgi Mamardashvili, and following a pitch-side VAR review, referee Christopher Kavanagh awarded a penalty.
The decision sparked protests, with Andy Robertson complaining vigorously, Virgil van Dijk and Ruben Dias involved in a minor clash, and Bernardo Silva and Conor Bradley exchanging words. Liverpool were fortunate, however, as Mamardashvili rose to the occasion and saved Haaland’s spot kick.
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