Premier League: Manchester City thump Liverpool 4-1 in the absence of Erling Haaland, stay in title race

Goal machine Erling Haaland-less Manchester City kept their Premier League title dream alive as they thrashed Liverpool 4-1 at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday (April 1).

Julian Alvarez, Kevin De Bruyne, Ilkay Gundogan and Jack Grealish scored for Pep Guardiola’s side after returning to the Premier League following the international break. With the win, City have moved within five points of table leaders Arsenal as well as extended their unbeaten run against Liverpool at home since 2015.

Haaland, who has scored 42 goals for City, was ruled out with a groin injury ahead of the clash. The reigning champions Manchester City reaffirmed their domination, coming from a goal down against sixth-placed Liverpool, who are enduring a poor season.

Liverpool broke the deadlock in the 17th minute when Diogo Jota made way for Mohamed Salah to net his 23rd goal for the Reds this season. However, Manchester City roared with Jack Grealish crossing for Julian Alvarez to level the scoreline 1-1 in the 27th minute. Grealish was also crucial to deny Salah to double the lead for Liverpool.

After resumption, Alvarez became the architect for City to take a lead in the 46th minute. Alvarez’s pass found Riyad Mahrez who crossed for Kevin de Bruyne to score from close range.

City took full control of the match, with Ilkay Gundogan netting a third goal. Jack Grealish put the final nail in the coffin of Liverpool as he perfectly timed his goal after receiving a cross from Kevin De Bruyne.

Liverpool will next play Chelsea on April 4, while Manchester City will take on Southampton on April 8.