Liverpool fans stood in the pouring rain, singing in celebration as the final whistle blew at Etihad Stadium. Their chants of “We’re going to win the league” echoed through the stands. With 90 seconds left in their defining victory over Manchester City, the fans had already decided—the title race was over.

Liverpool’s win extended their lead at the top of the Premier League table to 11 points. Though the season is not over yet, the reality is clear—Liverpool are on their way to becoming champions.

A New Era Under Arne Slot

Arne Slot has seamlessly stepped into Jurgen Klopp’s shoes, guiding Liverpool toward another domestic triumph. Legendary managers like Bill Shankly, Bob Paisley, and Joe Fagan always called the league title Liverpool’s “bread and butter.” Now, Slot is on the verge of adding his name to that historic list.

Saturday’s 2-0 victory over Manchester City, combined with Arsenal’s surprising loss to West Ham, has left little room for doubt. While football is full of surprises, it is difficult to imagine a scenario where this Liverpool squad, defeated only once all season, will let such a massive lead slip away.

Liverpool’s Title Charge Looks Unstoppable

Etihad Stadium has been the setting for many title-deciding moments in recent years. However, this time, it was Liverpool fans celebrating, chanting “hand it over” as Manchester City’s dominant era appeared to be crumbling.

Mathematically, the title race is still open. But in practical terms, Liverpool’s dominance is undeniable. They have 11 matches left, with seven of those to be played at Anfield, where they are nearly unbeatable. Arsenal, their closest challenger, have a game in hand, but even a perfect run might not be enough to catch Liverpool.

Slot remains cautious. “In any other league, this lead would feel safe, but not here,” he said. “Every match is a challenge. We saw that against Plymouth Argyle in the FA Cup. The fans can sing whatever they like, but we know there’s still work to do.”

History has seen teams collapse under pressure before, but very few have lost an 11-point lead this late in the season. The closest comparison is Manchester United’s 1997-98 campaign when they squandered an 11-point lead to Arsenal. However, that United squad had already lost five matches by March. This Liverpool team, in contrast, have only suffered one defeat.

Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal have shown resilience, but they have also struggled in key moments. When compared to Arsène Wenger’s legendary Arsenal team that overtook Manchester United in 1998, Arteta’s side lacks the same mental strength.

Guardiola Sees the Inevitable

Pep Guardiola refused to declare Liverpool champions but let his gestures speak. After the final whistle, he congratulated Slot warmly before shaking hands with every Liverpool player. He has seen title-winning teams before—and he knows one when he faces it.

Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart echoed the sentiment. “There’s no way back for Arsenal,” he said. “They can win every game from now on, but it won’t matter. Liverpool are too far ahead.”

Liverpool’s Ruthless Efficiency

Liverpool’s numbers prove their dominance. Slot’s team leads the league in goals scored with 64. They have taken 452 shots, the most in the competition, and have the highest number of on-target attempts at 173.

Mohamed Salah remains the key figure. His goal at Etihad was his 30th of the season, and he later assisted Dominik Szoboszlai for the second, sealing the win before halftime. With 21 assists to his name, Salah has contributed to 51 goals before February even ends.

This victory at Etihad carries extra significance. Twice before, a Guardiola-led City snatched the title from Liverpool on the final day of the season. But this time, it was different. Liverpool were in control from start to finish, delivering a statement win that erased years of heartbreak.

The Final Stretch

The final stretch of the season may now feel like a formality. The real question is not if Liverpool will be champions—but when. The excitement is already building for what seems like an inevitable title celebration.

Slot’s influence is undeniable. While Klopp’s era was built on high-energy, “heavy metal” football, Slot has brought a more calculated, methodical approach. Yet, the results are just as devastating for opponents.

Against City, Liverpool had just 33.9% possession—their lowest in a Premier League win since Opta began tracking such data in 2003-04. They attempted fewer shots than City and had fewer touches in the opposition box. But they controlled the game from start to finish.

“That was a business-like performance from Liverpool,” said Hart. “They neutralized City’s threats and executed their game plan perfectly. They were in control everywhere on the pitch.”

City had more of the ball, but Alisson barely had a save to make. Liverpool’s defense held firm, while their attack punished City’s mistakes. The second half became a mere formality.

Liverpool didn’t just beat City—they dismantled their title hopes.

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