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Liverpool's manager requested an encore of Liverpool’s display against Real Madrid as the title holders face Manchester City on Sunday. In place of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior in midweek, read Erling Haaland on Sunday. Neutralizing another of the game’s finest strikers, and keeping a third clean sheet consecutively, could strengthen Slot's declaration that Liverpool remain in the chase for the major trophies.

Ideal Cure for Recent Woes

The Champions League victory over the Spanish side's La Liga leaders, who had 13 victories from 14 games prior to coming at Anfield, was an ideal solution for a Liverpool team aiming to recover from the wounds of the worst run of Slot’s reign. It was also perfect preparation for the challenge ahead at the Etihad Stadium: a rival that wants to play out, that will not sit in a low block and poses an clear and dangerous attacking prowess.

“There will be some similarities,” stated Virgil van Dijk, who dominated Haaland at Anfield last season. “We're up against a high-flying side 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 why things went right against Madrid – and Aston Villa on Saturday – aligned with his analysis of why things went wrong during a run of six losses in seven matches. More recovery time, avoiding early goals, and better conditioning of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley after injury-hit pre-seasons were cited. This supported his previous arguments and choice to sacrifice the Carabao Cup by fielding a weakened squad 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 welcome reappearance at full-back of Andy Robertson, who has started each of Liverpool’s past three wins, brought composure and leadership to a defence.
• Florian Wirtz enjoyed another good night in the Champions League but not in the attacking midfield position he usually plays in the Premier League.

Szoboszlai’s Influence

Once more, Szoboszlai served as Liverpool’s engine in the midfield. The Hungary captain is flourishing currently and has established himself as a leader in the team.

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

Next Challenge

Szoboszlai started in attack alongside Curtis Jones and found the net at the Etihad last season as Slot caught City cold by adopting a alternative formation. Victory on that February day took Liverpool well ahead at the top with 11 matches to play. This weekend they will be chasing the leaders but, as Slot reminded everyone after defeating Madrid, there is plenty of road left for Liverpool to mount a comeback.