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Arne Slot has called for an encore of Liverpool’s display against Real Madrid as the Premier League champions visit Manchester City this weekend. For Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior in midweek, read Erling Haaland on Sunday. Stopping another of the game’s finest strikers, while keeping a third clean sheet consecutively, could strengthen Slot's declaration that Liverpool are still in the chase for the biggest prizes.

Ideal Cure for Recent Woes

The Champions League victory over Xabi Alonso’s La Liga leaders, who had 13 victories from 14 games prior to coming at Anfield, was the perfect remedy for a Liverpool team aiming to recover from the wounds of a difficult spell of his tenure. It was also perfect preparation for the challenge ahead at the Etihad Stadium: an opponent that wants to play out, that will not sit in a defensive block and carries an obvious, rampant threat.

“There will be some similarities,” stated Virgil van Dijk, who dominated Haaland at Anfield last season. “We're up against a high-flying side like today and a striker, like today, who was on fire. 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 the successful performance against Madrid – and Aston Villa last weekend – were consistent with his explanations for the earlier struggles during a run of six defeats in seven matches. Additional rest, not conceding first, and better conditioning of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley after injury-hit pre-seasons played a part. This supported his earlier points 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 boosted the defense to Liverpool’s defense.
• The welcome reappearance at full-back of Andy Robertson, who has started the last three victories, brought composure and leadership to a back four.
• Florian Wirtz impressed again in the Champions League but not from the No 10 role he has occupied in the Premier League.

Szoboszlai’s Influence

Once more, Szoboszlai served as Liverpool’s driving influence in the midfield. His national team skipper is flourishing this season and has established himself as a leader in the team.

“What you see is what you get from Dom,” commented Van Dijk. “His role is crucial. The work rate he brings during matches is incredible, the skill that he has is outstanding and he is learning with every outing.”

Looking Ahead

The midfielder started in attack alongside Curtis Jones and found the net at the Etihad last season as Slot caught City cold by switching to a alternative formation. That win in February put Liverpool well ahead at the summit with 11 matches to play. On Sunday they will be playing catch-up but, as Slot reminded everyone after defeating Madrid, there is a long way to go for Liverpool to mount a comeback.