```html Guardiola Rejuvenated as Manchester City Dispatch Liverpool in Dominant Display

Manchester City delivered a resounding statement of intent on Sunday, dismantling Liverpool at the Etihad Stadium in a performance that suggests Pep Guardiola's side are primed for another Premier League title challenge. The victory, marking Guardiola's 716th in his 1,000th game as a manager, propelled City to second in the table, just four points behind leaders Arsenal.

City Display Renewed Energy and Tactical Flexibility

After a trophyless season by his high standards, questions were raised about Guardiola's future and whether his methods were losing their edge. However, the performance against Liverpool, a team Guardiola himself acknowledges has consistently pushed him to his best, provided a definitive answer. The team's energy, tactical adaptability, and the integration of new players have breathed fresh life into the squad.

"We are more unpredictable in the way we attack and defend, and that is good that the opponents don't know what we are going to do," Guardiola stated after the match, highlighting the team's evolving approach. "It is good energy to have during the games."

Statistical Dominance Underpins City's Resurgence

City's dominance wasn't just limited to the scoreline. They have covered more ground than any other Premier League team this season, averaging 115.3 km per game, a significant increase of 5.5 km from the previous campaign. This enhanced work rate, coupled with their established passing game, makes them a formidable force.

Expert Analysis: Guardiola's Evolving Approach

Former Manchester City defender Nedum Onuoha, speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, emphasized Guardiola's adaptability. "The difference between Guardiola in those first 100 matches to the last is almost like it is a completely different manager in the way he sees his relationships with his players, the style of play," Onuoha noted. "I think he is somebody who has adapted over the years based on how football is changing. He has had his finger on the pulse of how that is."

Haaland's Prolific Form Key to City's Title Ambitions

Erling Haaland's sensational form continues to be a major factor in City's success. His headed goal against Liverpool, a classic centre-forward's finish from a pinpoint cross, showcased a different dimension to City's attack. The Norwegian striker now boasts an impressive 14 league goals in just 11 appearances this season, and 28 goals in 18 appearances for club and country. His ability to provide a direct, physical threat complements City's intricate passing style.

New Additions Making an Impact

While Haaland provides the cutting edge, other new additions are also making their mark. In the absence of Rodri, Nico Gonzalez has seamlessly slotted into the defensive midfield role, controlling the tempo and dictating play. Jeremy Doku's dazzling wing play has added another dimension to City's attack, providing pace and trickery.

Guardiola singled out Gonzalez for praise, acknowledging his growing influence in the team. He also lauded Bernardo Silva's performance, highlighting his importance to City's overall game plan.

Tactical Shift: A More Pragmatic City?

Former City midfielder Michael Brown observed a shift in Guardiola's tactical approach. "All of a sudden we are seeing him holding the ball in the corner at the end of games," Brown said. "In the Champions League they were under pressure and they played direct into Haaland. That wouldn't have been the case previously. Defensively, they are seeing out games." This suggests a greater pragmatism and willingness to adapt to different situations.

Liverpool's Struggles Continue

For Liverpool, the defeat was a stark reminder of their current struggles. Arne Slot's side, now languishing in eighth place, eight points behind Arsenal, face an uphill battle to qualify for the Champions League. Slot admitted that five defeats already this season is "too many" and insisted the title race is not a current consideration.

The Road Ahead

While City have suffered defeats this season, their recent form indicates a return to the consistency that has defined their success under Guardiola. With a rejuvenated squad, tactical flexibility, and a goalscoring machine in Haaland, they are once again the team to beat in the Premier League. Whether they can maintain this momentum throughout the season remains to be seen, but Sunday's performance served as a powerful warning to their rivals: Guardiola and City are back. ```