The champions were soundly beaten on a cathartic evening at the Etihad as goals from Erling Haaland, Nico Gonzalez and Jeremy Doku sealed success for the Citizens.
Liverpool lacked pace from the opening minutes and were fortunate not to fall behind before Haaland’s header opener, with Giorgi Mamardashvili saving a penalty from the Norwegian.
The Reds thought they had equalized when Van Dijk headed in a set piece, although the goal was controversially disallowed as Andy Robertson was deemed to have intervened from an offside position.
However, that moment was one of the few positive points for Arne Slot’s team, which finished in second place. Doku in particular tormented the visitors with seven dribbles and three chances.
Defeat leaves Liverpool eighth in the Premier League, eight points behind leaders Arsenal, heading into the November international break. Despite that gap, Van Dijk insisted Liverpool will not give up as they look to defend their crown.
“The first half was difficult. They were much more comfortable on the ball and it was difficult for our boys to put pressure on them,” Van Dijk reflected to Sky Sports.
“I don’t think there was much danger, but Doku played a good match and it was difficult for Conor [Bradley] sometimes one on one. I don’t think we had many problems, but we could have done better.
“In the second half we had to dig deep. We gained more momentum in possession, but our pressing was not good enough.
“It’s about finding consistency and continuing. Now we’ll go to our countries, stay fit and be ready for a big run afterwards. We’re not going to give up at all. We’re in November and we’re ready for a long season and a big fight.”
Read – Eight moments that defined the rivalry between Liverpool and Man City
See more – Premier League Team of the Week – Martinez, Doku, Thiago
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