In a season marked by fierce competition and dramatic twists, Liverpool Football Club clinched the 2025 Premier League title with a resounding 5-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield on April 27, 2025. The triumph, secured with four games to spare, marked the Reds’ second championship in five years and tied them with Manchester United for a record 20 English top-flight titles. As celebrations erupted across Merseyside, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, a long-time rival, extended a heartfelt message of congratulations, showcasing the class and respect that define one of football’s greatest managerial rivalries.
The stage was set at Anfield, where Liverpool, under the stewardship of Arne Slot, delivered a performance that encapsulated their dominance throughout the campaign. Tottenham struck first through Dominic Solanke, momentarily silencing the Kop. But the Reds responded with ferocity, as Luis Diaz, Alexis Mac Allister, and Cody Gakpo found the net before halftime, with Gakpo’s goal accompanied by an emotional celebration that resonated with fans. Mohamed Salah added a second-half strike, and an own goal by Destiny Udogie completed the rout. The 5-1 scoreline not only sealed the title but also underscored Liverpool’s attacking prowess and relentless spirit.
Meanwhile, in London, Guardiola’s Manchester City were battling their own demons. The defending champions, who have struggled to replicate their previous dominance, secured a 2-0 win over Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup semifinal at Wembley on the same day. Goals from Rico Lewis and Josko Gvardiol booked City’s place in the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace, offering a glimmer of salvation in a challenging season. Yet, as the final whistle blew, Guardiola’s thoughts turned to Liverpool’s remarkable achievement.
Speaking to the press post-match, Guardiola was quick to pay tribute. “Before I start, on behalf of myself and all the club, we want to congratulate Liverpool for their Premier League victory,” he said. “It’s well deserved, no doubts about that. They are a fantastic team.” His words carried the weight of a manager who has faced Liverpool’s wrath in countless epic battles, particularly during Jurgen Klopp’s tenure, when the two clubs traded titles and pushed each other to unprecedented heights. This season, however, Liverpool’s consistency under Slot outshone City’s efforts, with the Citizens languishing in fourth place, behind Arsenal and Newcastle United.
Guardiola’s message wasn’t just one of congratulations; it was a subtle challenge for the future. “For one year, they’re going to retain the title, and hopefully next season we can be better to compete until the end, which this season was not possible,” he added. The remark hinted at City’s ambitions to regroup and reclaim their place at the summit. After a season marred by injuries, including to star striker Erling Haaland, and an uncharacteristic dip in form—highlighted by a five-game losing streak, the worst in Guardiola’s career—City are eyeing a major squad overhaul in the summer transfer window. The FA Cup final offers a chance to end the season on a high, but Guardiola’s sights are already set on challenging Liverpool in 2025-26.
The rivalry between Liverpool and Manchester City has defined the Premier League for nearly a decade, with Guardiola’s tactical brilliance often edging out Klopp’s high-octane style. Yet, Slot’s arrival has injected fresh energy into Liverpool, and their title win has sent shockwaves through the footballing world. Fans on social media platforms echoed Guardiola’s sentiments, with some praising his sportsmanship while others noted City’s struggles, one user quipping, “We are a thousand million points behind,” reflecting the gap between the two sides.
For Liverpool, the celebrations are just beginning. Legends like Sir Kenny Dalglish, who shared emotional moments with Slot at Anfield, and pundits like Gary Lineker, who lauded the Reds’ unsung heroes, have hailed the team’s unity and brilliance. As Liverpool basks in glory, Guardiola’s words serve as both a nod to their triumph and a reminder that Manchester City, under his guidance, will be back with a vengeance. The Premier League’s next chapter promises to be as thrilling as ever.