It changed everything. Before it happened, Liverpool were playing equal to Manchester City. Even though they fell behind 1-0, it could be argued that Liverpool were outplaying City. In the early part of the game Liverpool were getting the better opportunities as Manchester City struggled to deal with the pace of the Reds attack, especially that of Mo Salah. But then it happened. And when it happened, everything changed. It, of course, was the red card issued to Sadio Mane.
And, it was warranted. Sure, Mane was aggressively going for a 50-50 ball. There was no intent and Mane was in no way being malicious. However, his foot was face-high and he did kick Ederson, the City keeper, directly in the face. It was a red card in my book, easily. It was unfortunate though for the Reds. One second they were threatening and looking to equalize. Their pacey winger got behind the defense and was looking to knock a ball out of the air to then shoot on target. The next moment they were a man short and the contest was over.
After the card, Liverpool struggled to mount any pressure on City. And, the Manchester City attack exposed Jurgen Klopp's weakness on the back line. You would think Liverpool were playing with a defender short not a winger. The Manchester City offensive were able to easily find space between the Liverpool defenders. Simon Mignolet did not stand a chance.
In the end, when the referee finally ended the brutality by blowing the final whistle, Liverpool were trounced by a score of 5-0. As good as Liverpool supporters felt after destroying Arsenal 4-0 before the International break, they must feel equally bad after this crushing defeat. The game was billed as an exciting showdown between two Premier League contenders. In turned into an embarrassing one-sided affair.
Now Liverpool must try to put this behind them as they are right back at it on Wednesday when they take on Sevilla in a Champions League contest. Jurgen Klopp will have his work cut out for him in the coming days trying to keep his squad confident. Solace can be taken though in that red card as it had an obvious impact on the result. Can the Reds dismiss the game and their performance and chalk it all up to the dismissal of Mane? Or, will their confidence be shaken and struggle to respond when they face Sevilla? We will find out quickly.
As a player, when you have a humiliating defeat like this you want to immediately seek redemption. Fortunately with 2 games in the next week they will have that opportunity. Still, this performance has to carry some weight in the players mind and could impact their form and confidence. I expect Klopp to make some changes for Wednesday's game in an effort to shake things up if for nothing else to give the players something else to think about.
The Premier League campaign is a long one and defeats will occur. The teams form will rise and fall throughout the year and they will at times look as if they are not a true contender for the title. As a supporter, we have to hope that this was just one of those expected events that is bound to happen in the year. Liverpool now need to put it behind them and get back on track. Sevilla will provide that opportunity.