Liverpool put on a comprehensive display that felt like it could have been from 2018 through 2022 despite the hot weather and boisterous crowd.
With Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate missing, many people had legitimate concerns about the threat Villa may offer at Anfield. However, Unai Emery’s team was defeated like a fly that is too slow to respond to your palm’s swat.
Everything about Liverpool’s performance seemed correct, from the forwards’ constant pressing to the midfield’s energy and technical prowess to the focus of Joel Matip and Joe Gomez at the back, who both effectively silenced their critics.
While the Reds’ performances in their three other games so far in 2023–24 all had weaknesses, this one was flawless. There was a togetherness on display that was invariably lacking last season.
With Arsenal not looking as dominant as they did last season and Manchester United struggling, Liverpool may now be seen as Manchester City’s biggest threat as they enter the international break with 10 points out of a possible 12.
After coming up so pitifully short the first time around, the issue is if the Reds actually appear prepared to mount a Premier League title push.
The sad and, let’s face it, dubious stranglehold that City currently has on the English game makes it true that they currently feel well ahead.
They should be considered a tremendous improvement over the aging team from last season for the time being, but they are still a work in progress and need to find another gear to match the depressingly unbeatable City.
Even though things may change rapidly in football, a top-four finish appears extremely likely. However, following these first four games, supporters should be allowed to hope even higher.
