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Arne Slot demanded another performance like the team's showing versus Real Madrid when the Premier League champions travel to Manchester City this weekend. In place of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior in midweek, read Erling Haaland on Sunday. 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 major trophies.

Perfect Remedy for Poor Form

The Champions League victory over the Spanish side's La Liga leaders, who had 13 victories from 14 games 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 perfect preparation for what awaits at the Etihad Stadium: an opponent that wants to play out, that will not sit in a low block and carries an clear and dangerous attacking prowess.

“There will be some similarities,” said Virgil van Dijk, who mastered 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 good as a team defensively.”

Reasons for Success

The manager's reasons for why things went right against Madrid – and Aston Villa on Saturday – were consistent with his explanations for the earlier struggles during a run of six losses in seven matches. Additional rest, avoiding early goals, and the improving fitness of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley following disrupted preparations were cited. This supported his earlier points and choice to sacrifice the Carabao Cup by using rotated players against Crystal Palace.

• The comeback of the familiar midfield trio of Dominik Szoboszlai, Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch boosted the defense to Liverpool’s defense.
• The overdue return at full-back of Andy Robertson, who has started the last three victories, restored calmness and leadership to a defence.
• 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 engine in the centre. His national team skipper is flourishing currently and has established himself as a key figure in the team.

“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 quality that he has is outstanding and he is learning each and every game.”

Looking Ahead

The midfielder started up front with Curtis Jones and found the net at the Etihad previously as Liverpool surprised City by adopting 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 a long way to go for Liverpool to stage a recovery.