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Liverpool's manager demanded a repeat of Liverpool’s display against Real Madrid as the Premier League champions visit Manchester City on Sunday. For Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior in midweek, read Erling Haaland this coming weekend. Stopping one more of the world's best attackers, and keeping a third clean sheet in a row, could strengthen the manager's declaration that Liverpool remain in contention for the major trophies.

Ideal Cure for Poor Form

Their European win over Xabi Alonso’s La Liga leaders, who had 13 victories from 14 games before their arrival at Anfield, was an ideal solution for a Liverpool team looking to heal the wounds of a difficult spell of his tenure. Additionally, it served as excellent groundwork for the challenge ahead at the Etihad Stadium: an opponent that wants to play out, that will not sit in a low block and poses an obvious, rampant threat.

“There will be some similarities,” said Virgil van Dijk, who dominated Haaland at Anfield the previous campaign. “We are facing a high-flying side like today and a striker, like today, who was in form. When that happens you have to be spot-on and I think we showed we were good as a team defensively.”

Key Factors

Slot’s list for why things went right against Madrid as well as Villa on Saturday – were consistent with his explanations for why things went wrong during a run of six defeats in seven games. More recovery time, not conceding first, and better conditioning of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley following disrupted preparations were cited. They backed up his previous arguments and choice to prioritize less the Carabao Cup by fielding a weakened squad against Crystal Palace.

• The return of the familiar midfield trio of Dominik Szoboszlai, Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch enhanced the protection to Liverpool’s defense.
• The welcome reappearance at left-back of Andy Robertson, who has started each of Liverpool’s past three wins, restored calmness and authority to a defence.
• The German playmaker impressed again in the Champions League but not from the attacking midfield position he has occupied in the Premier League.

Szoboszlai’s Influence

Once more, Szoboszlai served as Liverpool’s driving influence in the centre. The Hungary captain is flourishing this season and has established himself as a leader in Slot’s side.

“What you see is what you get from Dom,” said Van Dijk. “His role is crucial. The work rate he brings during matches is remarkable, the quality that he has is exceptional and he is developing each and every game.”

Next Challenge

Szoboszlai started in attack alongside Curtis Jones and found the net at the Etihad previously as Liverpool surprised City by adopting a alternative formation. That win in February put Liverpool well ahead at the summit with 11 games to play. This weekend they will be playing catch-up but, as the manager emphasized after defeating Madrid, there is a long way to go for Liverpool to mount a comeback.