Liverpool extended their Premier League lead to nine points with a commanding 2-0 victory over a struggling Manchester City at Anfield on Sunday. Cody Gakpo’s early strike and Mohamed Salah’s second-half penalty secured the Reds’ 18th win in 20 matches under manager Arne Slot.

City, winless in seven games and down to fifth in the table, continue to struggle as their title defense falters. Despite Pep Guardiola’s changes, including dropping goalkeeper Ederson, City were overwhelmed by Liverpool’s relentless pressure. Gakpo opened the scoring in the 12th minute, converting Salah’s cross, while Virgil van Dijk came close to adding more with dominant aerial threats.

City’s lackluster response saw Salah seal the win after Luis Diaz earned a penalty. Even with late substitutes like Kevin De Bruyne and Jack Grealish, City failed to breach Liverpool’s defense. Van Dijk’s late error gifted De Bruyne a chance, but Caoimhin Kelleher kept a clean sheet.

As Guardiola faces mounting pressure, Liverpool appear unstoppable in their pursuit of reclaiming the title. City’s slump leaves Arsenal and Chelsea as Liverpool’s closest challengers in an increasingly one-sided race.