Pep Guardiola celebrated a milestone in his managerial career as Manchester City delivered a dominant 3-0 victory over Liverpool at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday. The win marked Guardiola’s 1,000th game in management and his 550th in charge of City, capping the occasion with a powerful statement in the Premier League title race.
First-half goals from Erling Haaland and Nico González put City firmly in control before Jérémy Doku sealed the win with a brilliant solo strike after the break. The result moves City to within four points of league leaders Arsenal, reigniting their chase for the title.
Guardiola was full of emotion after the match, describing the performance as “an incredible present” from his players and staff.
“Thank you to the players and staff for giving me an incredible present against the most important opponent we’ve faced in my time here,” Guardiola said. “It’s been a special night with my kids here.”
The Spanish coach, who began his managerial journey with Barcelona in 2008, has since managed Bayern Munich and Manchester City, winning numerous domestic and European titles. His 716th career victory was achieved in trademark fashion, controlling possession, attacking with precision, and defending with discipline.
Guardiola also praised Doku for his standout display.
“He listens, he wants to improve, and he has special attributes in dribbling. He played an outstanding game,” Guardiola said.
For Liverpool, it was another frustrating evening. Manager Arne Slot criticized the officials for disallowing Virgil van Dijk’s first-half header, which was ruled offside due to Andy Robertson’s position. Slot argued that Robertson “didn’t interfere at all with what the goalkeeper could do.”
The defeat marked Liverpool’s fifth loss in six league matches, leaving the defending champions in seventh place and out of the title picture for now.
For Guardiola, however, the night was about celebration and reflection — a reminder of his longevity and continued excellence at the top of world football.
“I still believe in this team and what we can achieve,” Guardiola said. “Tonight showed that we are ready to fight for everything again.”
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