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Liverpool's manager requested an encore of Liverpool’s display versus Real Madrid as the Premier League champions face Manchester City this weekend. In place of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior in midweek, substitute Erling Haaland on Sunday. Stopping one more of the world's best attackers, and keeping a third shutout consecutively, would reinforce the manager's post-Madrid message that Liverpool are still in contention for the major trophies.

Perfect Remedy for Recent Woes

The Champions League victory over Xabi Alonso’s La Liga pace-setters, who had 13 victories from 14 matches prior to coming at Anfield, was the perfect remedy for a Liverpool team looking to heal the wounds of the worst run of Slot’s reign. Additionally, it served as excellent groundwork for the challenge ahead 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.

“There will be some similarities,” stated 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 on fire. When that happens you have to be spot-on 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 as well as Villa last weekend – were consistent with his explanations for the earlier struggles during a run of six defeats in seven games. More recovery time, not conceding first, and better conditioning of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley following disrupted preparations were cited. They backed up his earlier points and decision to sacrifice the Carabao Cup by fielding a weakened squad against Crystal Palace.

• The return of last season’s midfield core of Dominik Szoboszlai, Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch enhanced the protection to Liverpool’s defense.
• The overdue return at full-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 in the attacking midfield position he has occupied in the Premier League.

Dominant Display

Once more, Szoboszlai served as Liverpool’s engine in the midfield. The Hungary captain is excelling currently and has cemented his place as a leader in the team.

“Dom is consistently reliable,” commented Van Dijk. “His role is crucial. The work rate he brings during matches is remarkable, the skill that he has is outstanding and he is developing with every outing.”

Looking Ahead

The midfielder started in attack with Curtis Jones and scored at the Etihad last season as Liverpool surprised City by switching to a 4-2-2-2. Victory on that February day put Liverpool well ahead at the summit with 11 matches to play. This weekend they will be chasing the leaders but, as the manager emphasized after defeating Madrid, there is plenty of road left for Liverpool to stage a recovery.