The match was very tight from the start of the game although Manchester City was able to dominate the game but Liverpool was actually more effective in finishing the goal of the existing opportunities, Haaland's absence in the match made the Manchester City attack very dull,
Manchester City sold the second option of a striker that they have to Atletico Madrid, and they depended on Haaland all season long to deliver. There was no way he was not going to get injured at some point from starting and playing all the games for Manchester City this season in all the competitions. Also, with how disorganized Manchester City are in defense currently, this will not be their last loss. Finishing in top four may be even difficult.
City sold Alvarez, but they sign Marmoush as his replacement, so nothing difference. Are you expecting if Alvarez was still there, City could player better? This is wrong.
City has been regressed so hard, but i see it's not related to availability of their strikers. They crap in attack, midfield and defense.
Pep needs time to rebuild his winning team back like what he did when he came to the City. It may take a few years, and yeah patience is key.