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Arne Slot has called for another performance like Liverpool’s display against Real Madrid when the title holders travel to Manchester City this weekend. In place of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior on Tuesday, read Erling Haaland on Sunday. Shutting down another of the world's best attackers, while securing a third shutout consecutively, would reinforce the manager's declaration that Liverpool remain in contention for the biggest prizes.

Ideal Cure for Recent Woes

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 looking to heal 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, which doesn't defend in a defensive block and carries an clear and dangerous attacking prowess.

“It will be similar a little bit,” stated Virgil van Dijk, who dominated 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.”

Key Factors

The manager's reasons for why things went right against Madrid as well as Villa last weekend – were consistent with his explanations for the earlier struggles during a run of six losses in seven games. Additional rest, 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 earlier points and decision to sacrifice the Carabao Cup by fielding a weakened squad against Crystal Palace.

• The comeback of last season’s midfield core of Dominik Szoboszlai, Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch enhanced the protection to Liverpool’s backline.
• The overdue return at left-back of Andy Robertson, who has started the last three victories, restored calmness and authority to a defence.
• Florian Wirtz impressed again in the Champions League but not in the No 10 role he usually plays in the Premier League.

Szoboszlai’s Influence

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

“Dom is consistently reliable,” said Van Dijk. “He is very important. The work rate he brings on the pitch is incredible, the skill that he has is outstanding and he is developing with every outing.”

Next Challenge

Szoboszlai started up front alongside Curtis Jones and scored at the Etihad last season as Slot caught City cold by adopting a 4-2-2-2. Victory on that February day took Liverpool 11 points clear at the top with 11 matches to play. On Sunday they will be chasing the leaders but, as the manager emphasized after beating Real, there is a long way to go for Liverpool to stage a recovery.