In a performance that could define the Premier League title race, Jérémy Doku produced a breathtaking display to inspire Manchester City to a resounding 3-0 victory over rivals Liverpool at the Etihad Stadium.
The Doku Masterclass
The Belgian winger, nicknamed 'The Count', treated the damp November afternoon to a performance of pure artistry and power. From the opening whistle, Doku played with a joyful intensity that left Liverpool's defence in disarray throughout his 74 minutes on the pitch.
Doku's signature move - a deft wave of his foot over the ball before accelerating away - proved utterly devastating. He repeatedly made elite international players vanish, including a remarkable moment where he left Mohamed Salah bewildered before later dismantling a double-team from Ryan Gravenberch and Conor Bradley with apparent ease.
His crowning moment arrived in the 62nd minute when, after tormenting Ibrahima Konaté throughout the match, he jinked to his right and unleashed a thunderous shot into the far corner to make it 3-0. The strike was described as essentially unsaveable, a fitting conclusion to his dominant performance.
City's Tactical Dominance
Manchester City's fluidity from the start was remarkable, with Doku roaming freely alongside Rayan Cherki and Bernardo Silva. The opening goal exemplified Pep Guardiola's philosophy - beginning deep on the left with Doku and Silva combining in a move that showcased the team's seamless communication.
Erling Haaland had earlier doubled City's lead with a header from Matheus Nunes' cross, though there was some debate about whether it took a slight deflection off Konaté. Either way, it reinforced the Norwegian's relentless threat in front of goal.
Guardiola's experimental system featuring seven outfield players aged 23 or under proved highly effective. Nico González delivered another fine performance, while Phil Foden appeared bright and expressive throughout the contest.
Title Implications
This comprehensive victory may represent a pivotal moment in the Premier League season. While Liverpool had a goal disallowed for what was described as a 'very silly notion of offside' and enjoyed some promising spells, they were ultimately outclassed in every department.
The statistics tell a compelling story: Doku completed seven dribbles at a point where no other player on the pitch had managed more than one. His physical attributes - including an extraordinary standing jump and rapid footwork - combined with his technical skill made him virtually unplayable.
At just 23 years old and in his third season at Manchester City, Doku's development under Guardiola appears to be reaching new heights. While the manager cautiously noted afterwards that the winger might not become a prolific goalscorer, this performance demonstrated he could evolve into something equally valuable.
For Liverpool, this defeat represents a significant blow to their title defence. Having now lost five league games with 27 still to play, their chances appear slim given that title winners typically lose between three and six matches across an entire season.
Manchester City have now won five of their last six league matches, establishing themselves as serious title contenders, if not outright favourites given their extensive experience in championship run-ins.
