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Arne Slot demanded an encore of Liverpool’s display against Real Madrid when the title holders visit Manchester City this weekend. In place of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior in midweek, substitute Erling Haaland this coming weekend. Neutralizing another of the game’s finest strikers, and securing a third clean sheet consecutively, could strengthen Slot's post-Madrid message that Liverpool are still in contention for the major trophies.

Perfect Remedy for Poor Form

The Champions League victory over Xabi Alonso’s La Liga leaders, who had 13 wins from 14 matches prior to coming at Anfield, was an ideal solution for a Liverpool team aiming to recover from the wounds of the worst run of Slot’s reign. It was also perfect preparation for what awaits at the Etihad Stadium: an opponent that prefers to attack, which doesn't defend in a low block and carries an obvious, rampant threat.

“It will be similar a little bit,” said 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 in form. When that happens you have to be precise and I think we showed we were solid collectively defensively.”

Reasons for Success

The manager's reasons for the successful performance against Madrid as well as Villa last weekend – were consistent with his analysis of why things went wrong during a run of six defeats in seven matches. Additional rest, avoiding early goals, and better conditioning of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley after injury-hit pre-seasons played a part. They backed up his earlier points and choice to prioritize less the Carabao Cup by using rotated players against Crystal Palace.

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

Dominant Display

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,” said Van Dijk. “His role is crucial. The energy he brings during matches is incredible, the quality that he has is exceptional and he is learning with every outing.”

Looking Ahead

Szoboszlai started in attack alongside Curtis Jones and found the net at the Etihad last season as Liverpool surprised City by switching to a 4-2-2-2. That win in February took Liverpool well ahead at the summit with 11 matches to play. On Sunday they will be chasing the leaders but, as Slot reminded everyone after defeating Madrid, there is plenty of road left for Liverpool to stage a recovery.