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Arne Slot requested a repeat of Liverpool’s display versus Real Madrid as the Premier League champions visit Manchester City this weekend. In place of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior on Tuesday, read Erling Haaland this coming weekend. Neutralizing one more of the world's best attackers, while securing a third clean sheet consecutively, could strengthen Slot's declaration that Liverpool are still in the chase for the biggest prizes.

Perfect Remedy for Recent Woes

Their European win over Xabi Alonso’s La Liga leaders, who had 13 victories from 14 matches prior to coming at Anfield, was an ideal solution for a Liverpool team looking to heal the wounds of the worst run of Slot’s reign. It was also excellent groundwork for what awaits at the Etihad Stadium: an opponent that wants to play out, which doesn't defend in a defensive block and carries an clear and dangerous attacking prowess.

“It will be similar a little bit,” stated Virgil van Dijk, who dominated Haaland at Anfield last season. “We are facing a very in-form team like today and a striker, like today, who was on fire. When that happens you have to be precise and I think we showed we were solid collectively defensively.”

Key Factors

Slot’s list for the successful performance against Madrid – and Aston Villa last weekend – were consistent with his analysis of the earlier struggles during a run of six defeats in seven matches. More recovery time, not conceding first, and the improving fitness of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley after injury-hit pre-seasons played a part. This supported his previous arguments and choice to prioritize less the Carabao Cup by using rotated players against Crystal Palace.

• The return of last season’s midfield core of Dominik Szoboszlai, Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch enhanced the protection to Liverpool’s backline.
• The overdue return at left-back of Andy Robertson, who has started each of Liverpool’s past three wins, brought composure and authority to a back four.
• Florian Wirtz impressed again in the Champions League but not from the No 10 role he usually plays in the Premier League.

Szoboszlai’s Influence

Once more, Szoboszlai served as Liverpool’s engine in the centre. His national team skipper is excelling currently and has cemented his place as a leader in the team.

“Dom is consistently reliable,” commented Van Dijk. “His role is crucial. The energy he brings during matches is incredible, the quality that he has is outstanding and he is developing with every outing.”

Next Challenge

Szoboszlai started in attack with Curtis Jones and found the net at the Etihad previously as Slot caught City cold by adopting a 4-2-2-2. That win in February put Liverpool 11 points clear at the summit with 11 matches to play. On Sunday they will be playing catch-up but, as Slot reminded everyone after beating Real, there is a long way to go for Liverpool to mount a comeback.