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Arne Slot demanded a repeat of the team's showing against Real Madrid when the title holders travel to Manchester City on Sunday. For Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior in midweek, substitute Erling Haaland on Sunday. Stopping another of the game’s finest strikers, and keeping a third shutout consecutively, could strengthen Slot's declaration that Liverpool are still in contention for the major trophies.

Ideal Cure for Recent Woes

Their European win over the Spanish side's La Liga pace-setters, 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: a rival that wants to play out, which doesn't defend in a low block and poses an clear and dangerous attacking prowess.

“It will be similar a little bit,” said Virgil van Dijk, who mastered Haaland at Anfield last season. “We are facing a high-flying side like today and a striker, like today, who was on fire. When that happens you have to be spot-on and I think we showed we were good as a team defensively.”

Key Factors

Slot’s list for why things went right against Madrid as well as Villa on Saturday – were consistent with his analysis of the earlier struggles during a run of six defeats in seven matches. Additional rest, 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 previous arguments and choice to prioritize less 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 full-back of Andy Robertson, who has started the last three victories, restored calmness and authority to a back four.
• The German playmaker enjoyed another good night in the Champions League but not from the No 10 role he usually plays in the Premier League.

Dominant Display

Once more, Szoboszlai served as Liverpool’s driving influence in the midfield. His national team skipper is flourishing this season and has established himself as a key figure in Slot’s side.

“Dom is consistently reliable,” commented Van Dijk. “His role is crucial. The work rate he brings during matches is remarkable, the skill that he has is outstanding and he is developing each and every game.”

Next Challenge

Szoboszlai started in attack with Curtis Jones and found the net at the Etihad previously as Liverpool surprised City by switching to a 4-2-2-2. That win in February put Liverpool well ahead at the top with 11 matches to play. This weekend they will be playing catch-up but, as Slot reminded everyone after defeating Madrid, there is plenty of road left for Liverpool to mount a comeback.