Despite their brilliant performance on the field, the Skyblues went through a particularly turbulent international break on an extra-sporting level. Found guilty of serious financial offenses linked to 115 counts of non-compliance with financial fair play between 2009 and 2018, Manchester City found themselves at the heart of a huge media and legal storm across the Channel. This conviction raised strong questions of ethics within English football, reviving criticism from opposing supporters and above all raising the threat of heavy sanctions such as a withdrawal of points which could condemn the club to a decline.
From then on, we were able to question the influence of this situation on the players. Finally, Enzo Maresca’s men showed no sign of destabilization this Sunday against Liverpool. After a dull first period, marked by technical inaccuracies as well as a logical goalless draw at the break, Manchester City exploded the shock after returning from the locker room. The entry into play of Jérémy Doku in the 54th minute changed everything. The Belgian caused the expulsion of Ryan Gravenberch for a second yellow card (62nd), served Erling Haaland for the opener (65th), then doubled the lead with a sumptuous strike into the top corner (68th). A backheel from Joško Gvardiol for Rayan Cherki’s surgical finish completed the clean and flawless success of the visitors (0-3, 78th).
Manchester City is ready before facing PSG
This stylish victory brings a wind of serenity to the Mancunian staff in a difficult climate. At the end of the meeting, coach Enzo Maresca expressed his relief and pride at the resilience of his group: “ absolutely, for many reasons. After 10 to 15 years during which the club won titles and knew how to put in place the right strategies to achieve this, seeing such a situation occur is not pleasant for them. A process is underway, now is not the time. » This demonstration at Anfield allows Manchester City to string together an eighth consecutive victory in all competitions since the start of the season, with an impressive record of 23 goals scored and only 5 conceded.
As the Cityzens prepare to host a still fragile Paris Saint-Germain who will have to considerably raise their level of play on Wednesday in the Champions League, Erling Haaland insisted on the mental strength and sacred union that reign within the locker room: “ It was tough, it was difficult, but we showed incredible character, from defense to offense. So proud of each of us. It’s always difficult to come here, if you look at the results, it’s difficult. With the Pep and Klopp era it was difficult for both teams, it always has been. It’s important to stay mentally strong, stay united and do what you can to change. What we can do is play good football and fight together. This is the only thing we can do. » You will have understood, City is technically and mentally ready to face the reigning double European champion on Wednesday (9 p.m.). Sluggish since the start of the season, the capital club will have to live up to the bill.
