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Arne Slot demanded another performance like the team's showing 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 another of the world's best attackers, and keeping a third shutout consecutively, could strengthen Slot's declaration that Liverpool remain in contention for the major trophies.

Perfect Remedy for Recent Woes

Their European win over Xabi Alonso’s La Liga leaders, who had 13 wins from 14 matches prior to coming at Anfield, was an ideal solution for a Liverpool team looking to heal the wounds of a difficult spell of Slot’s reign. It was also perfect preparation for what awaits at the Etihad Stadium: an opponent that wants to play out, that will not sit in a low block and carries an obvious, rampant threat.

“It will be similar a little bit,” said Virgil van Dijk, who dominated Haaland at Anfield the previous campaign. “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

Slot’s list for why things went right against Madrid as well as Villa last weekend – aligned with his explanations for the earlier struggles during a run of six losses in seven games. Additional rest, avoiding early goals, and the improving fitness of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley after injury-hit pre-seasons were cited. They backed up his earlier points and choice to prioritize less the Carabao Cup by fielding a weakened squad against Crystal Palace.

• The comeback 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, restored calmness and authority to a defence.
• Florian Wirtz enjoyed another good night in the Champions League but not in the attacking midfield position he has occupied in the Premier League.

Szoboszlai’s Influence

Szoboszlai was again Liverpool’s engine in the centre. His national team skipper is flourishing this season and has established himself as a leader in Slot’s side.

“What you see is what you get from Dom,” commented Van Dijk. “He is very important. The energy he brings during matches is remarkable, the skill that he has is exceptional and he is developing each and every game.”

Next Challenge

Szoboszlai started up front with Curtis Jones and scored at the Etihad last season as Liverpool surprised City by switching to a alternative formation. That win in February took Liverpool well ahead at the top with 11 matches to play. This weekend they will be playing catch-up but, as Slot reminded everyone after beating Real, there is a long way to go for Liverpool to mount a comeback.