It had to happen sometime and it did so at the most likely venue. Manchester City lost at Anfield.
While the neutrals will point to what a great game it was, Pep Guardiola will be disappointed by the manner of the defeat.
Yes, City scored three goals and nearly nicked a draw, but there were too many players found wanting for City.
John Stones was poor, Kyle Walker (pass for the first goal aside) was woeful and it is hard to remember Sergio Aguero completing a pass all game.
The magnificent Ederson was always going to concede a daft one and it had to be that day of all days.
That said – it is not all doom and gloom. City now have a rare week off and it probably could not have come at a better time.
The players can get some rest and get back on the training ground ahead of their home game with Newcastle on Saturday evening. It is hard not to see Newcastle executing the same game plan that cost them a 0-1 defeat at St James’ Park last month. It may end badly for them.
By the time they kick off the future of Alexis Sanchez should be sorted out which will be a relief to all concerned. It has been the subject of far too much speculation where City are concerned.
The injury to Fabian Delph could force Guardiola into an unexpected move for a left back given Benjamin Mendy’s long-term injury. Quite who is another question altogether.
Jose Luis Gaya of Valencia is a name that has long since been linked with a move to a supposed ‘big club’ and would be available this month.
England’s Nathan Redmond has also been rumoured to have been a target last summer so a move for the Southampton man may also be on the cards should Delph’s scan confirm the worst.
Regardless of the transfer activity, City will be looking to bounce back from their first league defeat of the season and kick on the cup competitions. That starts with Newcastle.
