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Arne Slot requested another performance like Liverpool’s display versus Real Madrid when the Premier League champions travel to Manchester City on Sunday. In place of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior on Tuesday, substitute Erling Haaland on Sunday. Shutting down one more of the world's best attackers, while keeping a third shutout consecutively, would reinforce the manager's post-Madrid message that Liverpool remain in the chase for the major trophies.

Perfect Remedy for Recent Woes

Their European win over Xabi Alonso’s La Liga pace-setters, 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 Slot’s reign. It was also 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 mastered Haaland at Anfield the previous campaign. “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 solid collectively defensively.”

Reasons for Success

The manager's reasons for the successful performance against Madrid as well as Villa last weekend – aligned with his analysis of the earlier struggles during a run of six defeats in seven matches. Additional rest, not conceding first, and the improving fitness of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley following disrupted preparations were cited. This supported his previous arguments and choice to sacrifice the Carabao Cup by using rotated players against Crystal Palace.

• The return of the familiar midfield trio of Dominik Szoboszlai, Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch boosted the defense to Liverpool’s defense.
• The overdue return at left-back of Andy Robertson, who has started the last three victories, brought composure and leadership to a back four.
• Florian Wirtz 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 centre. His national team skipper is excelling currently and has cemented his place as a key figure in the team.

“Dom is consistently reliable,” commented Van Dijk. “His role is crucial. The work rate he brings on the pitch is incredible, the quality that he has is exceptional and he is developing with every outing.”

Next Challenge

The midfielder started in attack alongside Curtis Jones and found the net at the Etihad previously as Slot caught City cold by switching to a 4-2-2-2. That win in February put Liverpool well ahead 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 plenty of road left for Liverpool to mount a comeback.