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Arne Slot demanded a repeat of Liverpool’s display versus Real Madrid when the title holders visit Manchester City this weekend. For Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior on Tuesday, substitute Erling Haaland on Sunday. Neutralizing another of the game’s finest strikers, while securing a third clean sheet consecutively, could strengthen Slot's declaration that Liverpool remain in contention for the biggest prizes.

Perfect Remedy for Poor Form

The Champions League victory over the Spanish side's La Liga pace-setters, who had 13 victories from 14 games prior to coming at Anfield, was the perfect remedy for a Liverpool team looking to heal the wounds of the worst run of his tenure. Additionally, it served as excellent groundwork for what awaits at the Etihad Stadium: a rival that wants to play out, that will not sit 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 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

The manager's reasons for why things went right against Madrid as well as Villa last weekend – were consistent with his analysis of the earlier struggles during a run of six defeats in seven games. More recovery time, avoiding early goals, and the improving fitness of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley after injury-hit pre-seasons were cited. They backed up his earlier points and decision 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 enhanced the protection to Liverpool’s defense.
• The overdue return at full-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 in the attacking midfield position he usually plays in the Premier League.

Dominant Display

Szoboszlai was again Liverpool’s driving influence in the midfield. His national team skipper is excelling currently and has cemented his place as a key figure in Slot’s side.

“What you see is what you get from Dom,” commented Van Dijk. “He is very important. The energy he brings during matches is remarkable, the skill that he has is outstanding and he is developing each and every game.”

Next Challenge

The midfielder started up front with Curtis Jones and found the net at the Etihad previously as Slot caught City cold by adopting a 4-2-2-2. Victory on that February day took Liverpool well ahead at the top with 11 games 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.