CITY THRASHED AS LIVERPOOL STILL FAVOURITES FOR EPL GLORY

Written by on February 3, 2025

Written by: Floyd Nkanyane

A seismic weekend in the Premier League title race saw Arsenal deliver a stunning 5-1 demolition of Manchester City, while Liverpool strengthened their grip at the summit with a composed 2-0 victory at Bournemouth.

The Ashburton Grove witnessed a masterclass from Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, who humbled the defending champions with their most emphatic performance of the season. Martin Ødegaard set the tone with a second-minute opener, and despite Erling Haaland’s equalizer, the Gunners responded with an unstoppable second-half display. Goals from Thomas Partey, teenage sensation Myles Lewis-Skelly, Kai Havertz, and another young prospect Ethan Nwaneri completed the rout.

Only a Few

This historic victory marked a significant milestone for Arteta, who became only the third manager to go five games unbeaten against Pep Guardiola, joining the elite company of Thomas Tuchel and Jürgen Klopp. The result extended Arsenal’s impressive unbeaten run to 14 Premier League games, matching their best streak since December 2018 under Unai Emery.

For Manchester City, the defeat raised serious defensive concerns, as they conceded four or more goals for the fourth time this season – a new unwanted record in Guardiola’s managerial career. The Citizens have now shipped 53 goals in 36 games across all competitions, nearly matching last season’s total of 54 in 59 matches.

Vital Cruise for Liverpool

Meanwhile, at the Vitality Stadium, Liverpool demonstrated their title credentials with a professional 2-0 win over Bournemouth, extending their unbeaten run to 19 league games. Mohamed Salah proved the difference-maker, reaching a remarkable personal milestone by scoring his 300th and 301st goals in European club football. His penalty and trademark curling finish ended Bournemouth’s impressive 11-game unbeaten run and pushed Liverpool nine points clear at the top of the table until the Gunners reduced it to 6 points on Sunday.

The Egyptian’s brace took him past 20 Premier League goals for the fifth season, further cementing his legacy as one of the competition’s most prolific scorers. Liverpool’s away form has been particularly impressive, with the team now unbeaten in 14 road games – their best run since their 21-game streak between January 2019 and February 2020.

Despite creating chances, Bournemouth couldn’t convert their opportunities, with Justin Kluivert missing a golden chance to equalize. Liverpool’s clinical performance, converting two goals, demonstrated why they’re leading the title race.

Champion in Red?

As the Premier League season enters its crucial phase, Liverpool’s six-point cushion at the top looks increasingly significant. Arsenal’s statement victory keeps them in the hunt, while Manchester City’s defensive frailties suggest their era of dominance might be facing its sternest test yet. With each weekend bringing new drama and shifting dynamics, this season’s title race continues to captivate football fans worldwide.


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