Manuel Akanji has claimed that Trent Alexander-Arnold’s mind games did not faze Manchester City before their Sunday match, which resulted in a 1-1 draw with Liverpool at Anfield. Alexander-Arnold had sparked controversy by stating that Liverpool’s recent silverware holds more importance for their supporters due to the financial conditions of both teams. This comment was rebuffed by Erling Haaland who mentioned that the injured Liverpool player would not be aware of the sense of accomplishment that accompanies a treble win, something City achieved last season before securing the European Super Cup and Club World Cup in the first part of this season.
Rúben Dias echoed this sentiment, stating that a triple win is a sensation only known to winners, whilst Kyle Walker revealed that Alexander-Arnold’s opinion had been a popular topic in City’s dressing room.
The rivalry that was born between the two football clubs in the 2017-18 season is one that has come to define top-tier English football. Akanji, who was chosen to play in central defence by Pep Guardiola over Dias during the weekend, mentioned that Alexander-Arnold’s statements were likely strategised to get under City’s skin, however, he insists it did not negate their spirits or performance.
In his own words, Akanji stated, “It didn’t faze me. I am unsure why he made such a statement. He wasn’t even on the pitch. He can’t measure the joy associated with such a victory because he hasn’t experienced it. When you win three titles in a year which we did last year, or even five, then he can comment.”
According to Guardiola, his team endured an onslaught of pressure after Liverpool equalised in the 50th minute through an Alexis Mac Allister penalty. Following the exit of City’s goalkeeper, Ederson, due to an injury during the penalty, Liverpool ramped up the intensity. Liverpool manager, Jürgen Klopp, then introduced fresh legs in the form of Andy Robertson and Mohamed Salah on the field, which gave his side an extra dimension and threatened City, but they remained resolute.
The performance of City against Liverpool was commendable, with some help from Liverpool’s mediocre efforts, especially from Luis Díaz. The City reserve player, Jérémy Doku, was lucky to avoid a second penalty in overtime with an aggressive move towards Mac Allister. The swapping in of Mateo Kovacic and Doku for Kevin De Bruyne and Julián Álvarez by Guardiola in the 69th minute redressed City’s earlier game dominance. Doku came close to scoring at the 89-minute mark.
Akanji commented on the atypical match for the team, missing their usual control. Acknowledging the sure support of Liverpool’s fans, he highlighted their team’s resilience and the ability to accommodate varying roles. The deadlock was accepted, but it reflected well on the adaptability of the team.
Arsenal managed to hold onto the top spot due to goal difference, with Liverpool close behind and City one point down. For the first time since the 2013-14 season, the title race involves three contenders with ten matches left. In that season, Pellegrini’s City, Rodger’s Liverpool, and Mourinho’s Chelsea (described as ‘little horse’) engaged in a similar contest.
The face-off between City and Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium on March 31st following the international break has the potential of being a game-changer. City also hosts Aston Villa, along with away games against Brighton and Tottenham.
Arsenal faces a tough road ahead with upcoming matches against City, Brighton, Tottenham and Manchester United, besides home matches against Chelsea and Aston Villa. Liverpool’s challenging games seem to be against Everton and United, in away matches, and Tottenham at home. City is attempting a fourth successive top-tier title, a record yet to be set by any English team.
Akanji expressed increased competition with three teams involved, but emphasized the importance of focusing on their own team. The forthcoming league game against Arsenal will require a strong performance. According to the Guardian – “Listen to our Inside Politics Podcast for comprehensive analysis and conversations.”
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