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Liverpool's manager demanded a repeat of Liverpool’s display against Real Madrid when the Premier League champions face Manchester City on Sunday. For Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior in midweek, substitute Erling Haaland this coming weekend. Stopping one more of the world's best attackers, and keeping a third shutout consecutively, could strengthen the manager's post-Madrid message that Liverpool remain in contention for the major trophies.

Perfect Remedy for Recent Woes

The Champions League victory over the Spanish side's La Liga leaders, who had 13 victories from 14 matches before their arrival at Anfield, was the perfect remedy for a Liverpool team aiming to recover from the wounds of a difficult spell of Slot’s reign. It was also excellent groundwork for what awaits at the Etihad Stadium: a rival that wants to play out, which doesn't defend in a defensive block and carries an obvious, rampant threat.

“There will be some similarities,” said Virgil van Dijk, who mastered Haaland at Anfield the previous campaign. “We're up against a very in-form team like today and a striker, like today, who was on fire. 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 the successful performance against Madrid as well as Villa on Saturday – were consistent with his analysis of why things went wrong during a run of six losses in seven games. More recovery time, not conceding first, and better conditioning of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley after injury-hit pre-seasons were cited. They backed up his earlier points and decision 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 backline.
• The overdue return at left-back of Andy Robertson, who has started each of Liverpool’s past three wins, restored calmness and leadership to a defence.
• The German playmaker impressed again 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 centre. The Hungary captain is excelling currently and has cemented his place as a leader in Slot’s side.

“Dom is consistently reliable,” commented Van Dijk. “He is very important. The energy he brings during matches is incredible, the quality that he has is exceptional and he is learning each and every game.”

Looking Ahead

Szoboszlai started up front with Curtis Jones and scored at the Etihad last season as Liverpool surprised City by switching to a alternative formation. Victory on that February day took Liverpool 11 points clear at the summit with 11 matches to play. On Sunday they will be playing catch-up but, as the manager emphasized after defeating Madrid, there is a long way to go for Liverpool to mount a comeback.