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Liverpool's manager requested an encore of Liverpool’s display against Real Madrid as the Premier League champions visit Manchester City this weekend. In place of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior in midweek, read Erling Haaland on Sunday. Stopping one more of the game’s finest strikers, and keeping a third shutout consecutively, could strengthen Slot's post-Madrid message that Liverpool remain in contention for the biggest prizes.

Ideal Cure for Recent Woes

The Champions League victory over the Spanish side's La Liga leaders, who had 13 wins from 14 matches prior to coming at Anfield, was an ideal solution for a Liverpool team aiming to recover from the wounds of a difficult spell of Slot’s reign. Additionally, it served as excellent groundwork for what awaits at the Etihad Stadium: a rival that wants to play out, that will not sit in a low block and poses an obvious, rampant threat.

“There will be some similarities,” said Virgil van Dijk, who dominated Haaland at Anfield last season. “We are facing a high-flying side like today and a striker, like today, who was in form. When that happens you have to be spot-on and I think we showed we were solid collectively defensively.”

Key Factors

Slot’s list for the successful performance against Madrid as well as Villa on Saturday – aligned with his explanations for the earlier struggles during a run of six losses in seven games. More recovery time, avoiding early goals, and the improving fitness of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley after injury-hit pre-seasons were cited. This supported his previous arguments and decision to prioritize less the Carabao Cup by fielding a weakened squad against Crystal Palace.

• The comeback of the familiar midfield trio of Dominik Szoboszlai, Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch boosted the defense to Liverpool’s backline.
• The welcome reappearance at left-back of Andy Robertson, who has started the last three victories, brought composure and authority to a defence.
• The German playmaker enjoyed another good night 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 driving influence in the centre. His national team skipper is excelling currently and has cemented his place as a leader in Slot’s side.

“What you see is what you get from Dom,” said Van Dijk. “His role is crucial. The energy he brings during matches is incredible, the quality that he has is outstanding and he is learning each and every game.”

Looking Ahead

Szoboszlai started up front with Curtis Jones and scored at the Etihad previously as Slot caught City cold by adopting a alternative formation. That win in February took Liverpool well ahead at the top with 11 games to play. On Sunday they will be playing catch-up but, as Slot reminded everyone after defeating Madrid, there is a long way to go for Liverpool to mount a comeback.