Manchester City Rout Liverpool at Anfield to Extend Perfect Start
Manchester City answered a charged Anfield atmosphere with a thumping win over Liverpool, extending their flawless Premier League start to six matches while the club continues to deal with the consequences of being found guilty of 115 financial-regulation breaches.
Anfield response keeps City perfect
City arrived on Merseyside for their first game after the independent commission’s verdict amid hostility from the home support, with chants directed at the visitors’ off-field case. Enzo Maresca said his players had to keep their attention on the part of the situation they could influence: their football.
The result left City top of the Premier League on 18 points from a possible 18. It was also a significant statement at one of the division’s most difficult away grounds, with Liverpool beaten heavily at Anfield.
- Manchester City have won all six league fixtures this season.
- The Liverpool match was City’s first since the verdict on the 115 alleged Premier League rule breaches.
- City are first in the table with 18 points.
- Paris Saint-Germain are next as City turn to Champions League action.
Manager calls for football focus
Maresca accepted that criticism and noise from opposing supporters will remain, but said City must respond by producing results. He said the team need to learn to handle the outside reaction while creating their own “noise” through winning matches.
The City manager was not prepared to be drawn into discussion of how long the appeal process could take. Asked about the timetable, he said he was happy and that the issue did not concern him.
He also suggested the reaction from rival fans could strengthen the connection between the club and its own support. For Maresca, the practical target was simple: remain united and give supporters victories to celebrate.
Senior figures present for Liverpool win
Chief executive Ferran Soriano and sporting director Hugo Viana were among the senior City representatives at Anfield. Maresca viewed their presence as important given the occasion, saying it showed the value of the club standing together during a difficult moment.
Erling Haaland delivered a similar message after the match. The striker said the group must remain mentally strong, stay together and concentrate on matters within its control: playing well and competing as a collective.
| Premier League record | Total |
|---|---|
| Matches played | 6 |
| Wins | 6 |
| Points | 18 |
Appeal remains unresolved
City could face major sporting sanctions if their appeal against the commission’s decision is unsuccessful. The potential penalties include a substantial points deduction and possible expulsion from the Premier League.
For now, Maresca and his squad will move directly into preparations for Paris Saint-Germain. City’s response at Anfield has preserved their perfect domestic record, and the Champions League fixture offers another chance for the players to keep the focus on results rather than the legal case surrounding the club.
