Liverpool took the field for the first time since being crowned the Premier League champions. Receiving a guard of honour from arguably their biggest title rivals was a definite high point of their season. Manchester City, on the other hand, had their reputation to play for and Guardiola needed to make a statement going into the new season.
For the initial twenty minutes, it looked pretty even as both the teams had some decent chances. Salah even hit the post in the early minutes. However, soon Gomez gave away an unnecessary penalty, and all hell broke loose for the Merseyside giants. Eventually, the Reds suffered a humiliating 4-0 defeat, a margin which could have been more.
Liverpool Players Rated In Defeat Against Manchester City
Alisson Becker- 4
The Brazilian had a rare bad game as we saw some errors in judgment. His bad decision making was evident when he let in the fifth goal from the near post at the closing stages, only for the goal to be cancelled by VAR.
Andrew Robertson- 4
The worst game of the season so far for the left-back. Did not even make one incisive pass throughout the length of the match, which is unlike what we have seen from the ex-Hull City man.
Virgil van Dijk- 6.5
Among the other Liverpool defenders, looked like a champion, although was a pale shadow of his usual self.
Joe Gomez- 2
The worst performer for the side. His personal problems with Sterling got the better of him, and Klopp would be furious.
Trent Alexander-Arnold- 5
Nothing remarkable to show for his efforts. However, he tried to help his side in the attack at times.
Fabinho- 6.5
Looked very promising at the beginning. In the second half, Kloop moved him alongside Van Dijk, which resulted in his ineffectiveness.
Jordan Henderson- 6
Certainly could not compete in skills against the City midfield, but did not lack in the effort.
Georginio Wijnaldum- 4
The Dutchman surrendered too early and did not even try to leave a mark at the centre of the pitch for the Reds.
Sadio Mane- 3
A disastrous performance by the African at the front. Looked completely off colour and missed several clear chances.
Roberto Firmino- 4
Absent for most of the game, the Brazilian lacked creativity throughout this game. Needs a pep talk by the manager before the next game.
Mohamed Salah- 6
Hit the post early in the match, and if the ball had gone in, the outcome could have been a lot different. Although the Egyptian looked far from his usual self.
Substitutes
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain- 5
At least the Englishman put in some much-needed effort going forward. However, the only thing that he can show tonight is his own goal.
Divock Origi- 6
The end product was low. However, did not lack in enthusiasm.
Naby Keïta- 5
A lot better display in the midfield than Wijnaldum. Should have been in the side from the start.
Takumi Minamino- NA
Too little time to judge.
Neco Williams- NA
He came on the field to get enough appearances to get his league medal, and that was all he did.
