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Liverpool's manager has called for another performance like Liverpool’s display versus Real Madrid as the title holders visit Manchester City this weekend. In place of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior on Tuesday, read Erling Haaland on Sunday. Stopping one more of the world's best attackers, while keeping a third clean sheet in a row, would reinforce Slot's post-Madrid message that Liverpool remain in the chase for the major trophies.

Perfect Remedy for Poor Form

Their European win over Xabi Alonso’s La Liga pace-setters, who had 13 wins from 14 matches before their arrival 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 excellent groundwork 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 clear and dangerous attacking prowess.

“It will be similar a little bit,” said Virgil van Dijk, who dominated Haaland at Anfield last season. “We're up against a very in-form team 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 solid collectively defensively.”

Reasons for Success

The manager's reasons 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 games. More recovery time, avoiding early goals, and better conditioning of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley following disrupted preparations played a part. This supported his previous arguments and decision 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 boosted the defense to Liverpool’s backline.
• The overdue return at full-back of Andy Robertson, who has started the last three victories, brought composure and authority to a defence.
• The German playmaker enjoyed another good night in the Champions League but not from the No 10 role he has occupied in the Premier League.

Dominant Display

Szoboszlai was again Liverpool’s engine in the midfield. The Hungary captain is flourishing this season and has cemented his place as a key figure in the team.

“Dom is consistently reliable,” said Van Dijk. “He is very important. The work rate he brings during matches is remarkable, the skill that he has is outstanding and he is developing each and every game.”

Looking Ahead

Szoboszlai started in attack alongside Curtis Jones and scored at the Etihad previously as Liverpool surprised City by switching to a 4-2-2-2. Victory on that February day put Liverpool well ahead at the summit with 11 matches to play. On Sunday they will be chasing the leaders but, as the manager emphasized after beating Real, there is a long way to go for Liverpool to mount a comeback.