Rayan Cherki caps Manchester City rout after Gravenberch red at Anfield
Manchester City moved towards a three-goal win at Anfield after Rayan Cherki finished a slick combination with Josko Gvardiol, putting the visitors on course to open a three-point lead at the Premier League summit.
The decisive swing came after Liverpool midfielder Ryan Gravenberch was dismissed in the 62nd minute. Already booked, the Dutchman received a second yellow from referee Chris Kavanagh for a challenge on City winger Jeremy Doku, leaving the home side with 10 men for the closing half-hour.
City strike after Gravenberch dismissal
- Gravenberch saw red in the 62nd minute after fouling Doku.
- Erling Haaland put City ahead three minutes later, continuing a scoring streak that has reached six consecutive club matches. His recent run includes goals against Manchester United, Porto and Sunderland.
- Doku then cut inside and beat Alisson Becker with a powerful finish three minutes after Haaland’s opener.
- City extended the gap through Cherki, after Elliot Anderson found him in the move. Cherki allowed the ball to travel to Gvardiol, who returned it into the Frenchman’s path for a composed finish.
Liverpool had kept the contest tight during the opening hour, with Victor Munoz causing problems for the City defence. But the sending-off changed the midfield battle, and City took control with their extra man.
The hosts were also without Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo, two attackers regarded as Liverpool’s most influential forward players. Jamie Carragher said the absences placed added responsibility on those available, insisting: “There’s a long way to go, but with Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo out today, you need other players to step up.”
What happens next
City’s three-goal advantage leaves Liverpool facing a major late recovery with 10 men. The result would take City three points clear at the top of the Premier League table.
