Manchester City Beat 10-Man Liverpool 3-0 to Stay Top of Premier League
Manchester City strengthened their grip on the Premier League lead with a 3-0 win at Liverpool, remaining three points ahead of Arsenal after a decisive afternoon at Anfield.
City capitalise after Liverpool dismissal
The contest turned when Liverpool midfielder Ryan Gravenberch was sent off by referee Chris Kavanagh, handing Enzo Maresca’s side a major advantage.
City struck within three minutes of the red card, with Erling Haaland scoring the opening goal. The visitors went on to complete a commanding 3-0 victory and preserve their flawless league start.
- Result: Liverpool 0-3 Manchester City
- League position: City remain top, three points clear of Arsenal
- Turning point: Ryan Gravenberch’s dismissal
- Immediate response: Haaland scored three minutes later
Haaland shares joke with camera operator
Haaland applauded the travelling City fans in the lower Anfield Road Stand after the final whistle before making his way towards the tunnel.
While greeting staff including reserve goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli and set-piece coach James French, the Norwegian was approached by a camera operator who praised his goal.
“Great goal, mate. Great goal,” the operator told him.
Haaland recognised him immediately and laughed: “You are everywhere, you.” When the cameraman agreed, the striker replied: “I see you more than my missus, I do.”
Haaland has been with former footballer Isabel Haugseng Johansen for five years, having begun their relationship during his Borussia Dortmund spell. They have a son, who was born in December 2024.
Financial case hangs over City
The win was City’s first match since an independent commission ruled that the club had committed serious Premier League financial breaches across nine seasons, from 2009-10 to 2017-18.
The possible punishments include relegation or removal from the Premier League. City have continued to contest the findings and have lodged an appeal.
Before the Liverpool match, Haaland urged supporters to “enjoy the ride”, reflecting the defiant position adopted by the club’s Abu Dhabi ownership.
What happens next
Sir Gary Hickinbottom will chair the appeal board hearing that will decide whether City’s challenge succeeds or is rejected.
On the pitch, Maresca’s team will aim to protect their early advantage over Arsenal. Off it, the appeal process could shape the club’s long-term future.
