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Liverpool's manager has called for a repeat of Liverpool’s display against Real Madrid as the Premier League champions visit Manchester City on Sunday. For Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior on Tuesday, read Erling Haaland this coming weekend. Neutralizing one more of the game’s finest strikers, while securing a third shutout in a row, would reinforce Slot's post-Madrid message that Liverpool remain in the chase for the biggest prizes.

Perfect Remedy for Poor Form

The Champions League victory over Xabi Alonso’s La Liga leaders, who had 13 victories from 14 games prior to coming at Anfield, was the perfect remedy for a Liverpool team aiming to recover from 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 prefers to attack, which doesn't defend in a defensive block and poses an clear and dangerous attacking prowess.

“There will be some similarities,” said Virgil van Dijk, who dominated Haaland at Anfield last season. “We're up against a very in-form team 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 on Saturday – aligned with his analysis of why things went wrong 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 following disrupted preparations were cited. This supported his earlier points and decision to sacrifice the Carabao Cup by using rotated players against Crystal Palace.

• The comeback of last season’s midfield core 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 impressed again in the Champions League but not from the attacking midfield position he has occupied in the Premier League.

Dominant Display

Once more, Szoboszlai served as Liverpool’s engine in the centre. The Hungary captain is flourishing currently and has cemented his place as a key figure in the team.

“Dom is consistently reliable,” said Van Dijk. “His role is crucial. The energy he brings on the pitch is remarkable, the skill that he has is exceptional and he is learning with every outing.”

Looking Ahead

Szoboszlai started up front with Curtis Jones and found the net at the Etihad previously as Slot caught City cold by switching to a alternative formation. That win in February put Liverpool 11 points clear at the summit with 11 games 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.