Matchweek 10 of the Premier League wrapped up with a thrilling showdown at Etihad Stadium, where Manchester City triumphed 3-0 against Liverpool, marking the most significant league defeat for Arne Slot since he took over as manager. For Pep Guardiola, this match held special significance as it was his 1,000th game at the helm, motivating his squad to deliver a strong performance and position themselves in second place, sitting just behind Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, who drew 2-2 with Sunderland.
The opening half was dominated by the home side, who controlled nearly all statistics in the first 45 minutes. City earned an early penalty when Jérémy Doku was fouled by Liverpool goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili. However, Mamardashvili redeemed himself by saving Erling Haaland’s attempt, who required just two goals to become the fastest player in Premier League history to reach 100 goals. Yet, Haaland made up for the miss in the 29th minute with a brilliant header, giving City the lead at 1-0.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 9: Erling Haaland of Manchester City jumps for a header during the Premier League match between Manchester City and Liverpool at Etihad Stadium on November 9, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Simon Stacpoole/Offside/Offside via Getty Images)
(Simon Stacpoole/Offside/Offside)
In the 37th minute, Virgil van Dijk seemed to have equalized with a header from a corner, but the goal was ruled out due to Andy Robertson being offside and obstructing City’s goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. Many felt it was a harsh decision, as there wasn’t enough evidence to suggest that Robertson hindered Donnarumma’s ability to save the shot. Regardless, the call stood, giving City a much-needed reprieve.
As if that wasn’t enough, City increased their lead just before halftime with a deflected goal from Nico Gonzalez in the third minute of stoppage time, sending them into the break 2-0 ahead while Liverpool appeared weary.
The second half started with a glimmer of hope for Liverpool, but it faded swiftly when the outstanding Doku netted a brilliant third goal in the 63rd minute. Ultimately, City celebrated a convincing victory over the Reds, reclaiming second place in the league, just four points behind Arsenal.
On Sunday, Aston Villa dominated Bournemouth 4-0, while Brentford made a comeback to win 3-1 against Newcastle United. Sean Dyche’s Nottingham Forest continued their resurgence by beating Leeds United 3-1.
Meanwhile, on Saturday, Sunderland secured a dramatic 2-2 draw against league leaders Arsenal at the Stadium of Light, courtesy of Brian Bobbey’s last-minute equalizer. Chelsea registered a 3-0 victory over manager-less Wolves, while West Ham United notched their second consecutive win with a 3-2 triumph over Burnley. The day’s action began in north London, where Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United provided a thrilling finish with three goals in the last 12 minutes, resulting in yet another 2-2 draw.
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Winners
Jérémy Doku: It was undeniable that Pep Guardiola’s squad is back in form, celebrating his 1,000th match in charge with a convincing 3-0 win over Liverpool, marking seven victories in their last eight outings across all competitions. The team displayed a comprehensive performance, but the night belonged to Doku, who was simply unstoppable. The Belgian winger earned a penalty, registered three shots, and scored a spectacular goal that clinched the victory. The only downside was his withdrawal in the 73rd minute, leaving Conor Bradley elated.
Since arriving in 2023, Doku’s performance on Sunday clearly showed that this season is his time to shine.
Unai Emery: Aston Villa’s manager outsmarted his Basque counterpart Andoni Iroala as his side handily defeated Bournemouth, who were desperate to bounce back after losing to Manchester City the previous weekend. Emery’s tactical approach paid off, as Villa exhibited impressive physicality, intent, and resilience, exposing numerous weaknesses in Bournemouth’s defense—a true masterclass of using an opponent’s strength against them.
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Alejandro Garnacho: The Argentine winger was outstanding for Chelsea against Wolves, contributing two assists in his team’s comprehensive 3-0 victory. This marked his first Premier League game with multiple assists and concluded a fantastic week that also featured a remarkable goal in the Champions League, salvaging a point against Qarabag.
Losers
Arne Slot: After two consecutive victories against Aston Villa and Real Madrid, Slot’s team faced a harsh reality check with Sunday’s defeat—their worst in the league since he became manager. The disjointed performance highlighted a lack of cohesion against a well-organized Manchester City. The upcoming international break might provide Slot with the reset he needs, but with many players leaving for international duty, quick fixes seem unlikely. He understands all too well that improvements are necessary.
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Newcastle United: The away form continues to plague Newcastle, as they succumbed to a 3-1 defeat against Brentford on Sunday, marking their third consecutive loss on the road in the Premier League. Even after Dan Burn’s dismissal in the 73rd minute, the disadvantage was not the cause of their defeat; rather, the team simply failed to perform. This season, Newcastle has not secured an away win in the league, raising concerns about their aspirations for European football. They urgently need to enhance their performance away from home.