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Introduction
Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium was more than just a statement win it was a testament to the resilience, tactical brilliance, and sheer determination of a team that continues to defy expectations. Under the guidance of Arne Slot, the Reds have surged to an 11-point lead at the top of the Premier League table, but the Dutchman remains cautious, knowing all too well the challenges that lie ahead in the world’s most competitive league.
A Historic Win at the Etihad
For the first time since Jürgen Klopp’s inaugural visit as Liverpool boss in November 2015, the Reds secured a league victory at the Etihad. Goals from Mohamed Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai in the first half sealed a memorable win, showcasing Liverpool’s ability to execute a game plan to perfection. Arne Slot’s side defended resolutely and capitalized on their counter-attacking opportunities, a strategy that proved decisive against Pep Guardiola’s possession-dominant City.
| “If you play away at the Etihad, if you win there, it is always a big win, no matter what the league table looks like,” | Slot acknowledged. He emphasized the difficulty of facing a Guardiola-led team, particularly in their own backyard, and praised his players for their defensive discipline and clinical finishing.
The Premier League’s Unpredictability: Why 11 Points Isn’t Enough
Despite the commanding lead, Arne Slot was quick to temper expectations.
| “In every other league, I think a lead like this would be very comfortable—except for this one,” | he remarked. The Premier League’s relentless nature means no team can afford to rest on its laurels. Slot pointed to recent fixtures against Aston Villa and Wolves as examples of the challenges Liverpool has faced, highlighting how even seemingly straightforward games can become grueling battles.
He also noted that Arsenal, who sit second in the table, have already navigated tough away fixtures against City and Villa.
| “It is so hard to judge the league table before every single game is played,” | Slot said, underscoring the importance of maintaining focus and consistency in the remaining matches.
Salah’s Special Season Continues
Mohamed Salah’s first-half goal against City was his 30th of the season, moving him level with Gordon Hodgson as Liverpool’s third-highest all-time scorer with 241 goals. Arne Slot was effusive in his praise for the Egyptian forward, whose ability to deliver in crucial moments has been a hallmark of Liverpool’s campaign.
| “What pleased me most today is that mostly we have more ball possession, so that means we bring him many, many times in promising positions,” | Slot said.
| “But today, there weren’t that many moments we could bring him into those positions. Yet, in the seven, eight, or nine moments he had, he was a threat every time. That probably tells you even more about the quality player he is.”
Salah’s ability to thrive even in games where Liverpool are forced to defend for long periods is a testament to his world-class talent. Arne Slot added,
| “At the moment, not many things seem difficult for Mo.”
The Spirit Driving Liverpool’s Success
One of the key factors behind Liverpool’s success this season has been the unity and determination within the squad. Arne Slot highlighted the collective desire to achieve something special, particularly for players who have yet to win a major trophy with the club.
| “If you ask, I would hope that the ones who haven’t won it yet would want to win something this season as well,” | Slot said.
| “Looking at them, how hard they work, I think all of them want to achieve something this season.”
He also drew parallels to previous title races, noting that the Premier League often goes down to the wire.
| “This league has always gone until the end—except I think for one season when Liverpool won it with a 25-point gap. In all the other seasons, it was so close.”
Set-Pieces: The Unsung Hero of Liverpool’s Campaign
Arne Slot also shed light on the importance of set-pieces in Liverpool’s success. Against City, Szoboszlai’s goal from a set-piece provided a crucial breakthrough at a time when the Reds were not dominating the game.
| “Set-pieces are vital,” | Slot explained.
| “If you want to win a big game, you need to have a neutral balance in set-pieces or a positive one. Today, it was the opposite: we scored from a set-piece, and that gives you such a boost.”
He acknowledged that integrating new players and staff into the set-piece system takes time but expressed confidence in the progress being made.
| “We started with a new group of people this season, and we need to give them a bit of time. That’s also what you see at Arsenal—when they started working, it wasn’t immediate. It takes a bit of time before you see the result.”
Looking Ahead: The Title Race and Beyond
As Liverpool prepare for their next challenge against Newcastle United, Arne Slot remains grounded. He knows that the Premier League’s unpredictability means every game is a potential stumbling block.
| “We played a 3-3 over there earlier this season, which was, in my opinion, also a good result, although after 89 minutes we were 3-2 up,” | he recalled.
| “We experienced how difficult that one is.”
Arne Slot’s calm demeanor and pragmatic approach have been instrumental in navigating the pressures of a title race. While the fans may already be dreaming of a 20th league title, the manager is focused on the task at hand.
| “The boys have worked every single day really hard to be where they are now,” | he said.
| “I hope and assume that they will keep doing that for three more months, and let’s see where we are then.”
Conclusion
Liverpool’s victory at the Etihad was a defining moment in their season, but Arne Slot knows the job is far from done. With Salah in scintillating form, a united squad, and a tactical approach that continues to deliver results, the Reds are well-positioned to challenge for the title. However, the Premier League’s unforgiving nature means nothing can be taken for granted.
As the season enters its final stretch, one thing is certain: Liverpool’s journey under Arne Slot has been nothing short of captivating. Whether they lift the trophy in May or not, this team has already etched its name into the annals of the club’s storied history. The question now is whether they can go all the way—and if they do, it will be a triumph earned through grit, brilliance, and an unyielding belief in their collective strength.
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YNWA (You’ll Never Walk Alone)!
The Liverpool FC Times Team
LiverpoolFCTimes.com