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Arne Slot has called for another performance like Liverpool’s display against Real Madrid as the title holders travel to Manchester City on Sunday. In place of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior in midweek, read Erling Haaland on Sunday. Stopping another of the game’s finest strikers, while securing a third shutout 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 the perfect remedy for a Liverpool team aiming to recover from the wounds of the worst run of his tenure. Additionally, it served as perfect preparation for the challenge ahead at the Etihad Stadium: a rival that prefers to attack, that will not sit in a low block and carries an clear and dangerous attacking prowess.

“There will be some similarities,” stated Virgil van Dijk, who mastered 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 precise and I think we showed we were good as a team defensively.”

Key Factors

Slot’s list for why things went right against Madrid – and Aston Villa on Saturday – aligned 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 played a part. This supported his previous arguments and decision to sacrifice 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 defense.
• The welcome reappearance at left-back of Andy Robertson, who has started the last three victories, restored calmness and leadership to a back four.
• The German playmaker impressed again in the Champions League but not from the No 10 role he has occupied in the Premier League.

Dominant Display

Once more, Szoboszlai served as Liverpool’s engine in the centre. His national team skipper is flourishing currently and has established himself as a key figure in Slot’s side.

“What you see is what you get from Dom,” commented Van Dijk. “His role is crucial. The energy he brings on the pitch is remarkable, the skill that he has is exceptional and he is developing with every outing.”

Looking Ahead

The midfielder started in attack alongside Curtis Jones and scored at the Etihad last season as Liverpool surprised City by adopting a alternative formation. That win in February took Liverpool well ahead at the summit with 11 games to play. On Sunday they will be playing catch-up but, as the manager emphasized after defeating Madrid, there is a long way to go for Liverpool to stage a recovery.