🔗 Share this article

Liverpool's manager demanded an encore of Liverpool’s display against Real Madrid when the Premier League champions face Manchester City on Sunday. In place of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior in midweek, read Erling Haaland this coming weekend. Neutralizing another of the world's best attackers, while securing a third clean sheet in a row, could strengthen the manager's post-Madrid message that Liverpool are still in contention for the biggest prizes.

Ideal Cure for Recent Woes

Their European win over Xabi Alonso’s La Liga leaders, who had 13 wins from 14 games before their arrival at Anfield, was an ideal solution for a Liverpool team looking to heal the wounds of the worst run of Slot’s reign. It was also excellent groundwork for the challenge ahead at the Etihad Stadium: an opponent that wants to play out, which doesn't defend in a low block and carries an clear and dangerous attacking prowess.

“There will be some similarities,” said Virgil van Dijk, who mastered Haaland at Anfield last season. “We are facing 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 the successful performance against Madrid as well as Villa last weekend – aligned with his explanations for why things went wrong during a run of six defeats in seven matches. More recovery time, not conceding first, and the improving fitness of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley after injury-hit pre-seasons played a part. This supported his earlier points and choice 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 the last three victories, brought composure and authority 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.

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.

“What you see is what you get from Dom,” said Van Dijk. “He is very important. The work rate he brings during matches is remarkable, the quality that he has is exceptional and he is learning each and every game.”

Next Challenge

Szoboszlai started up front alongside Curtis Jones and found the net at the Etihad last season as Liverpool surprised City by switching to a alternative formation. That win in February 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 beating Real, there is plenty of road left for Liverpool to mount a comeback.