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Arne Slot has called for another performance like the team's showing against Real Madrid as the Premier League champions face Manchester City on Sunday. For Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior on Tuesday, read Erling Haaland on Sunday. Stopping another of the game’s finest strikers, and securing a third clean sheet consecutively, would reinforce the manager's post-Madrid message that Liverpool remain in the chase for the major trophies.

Perfect Remedy for Poor Form

Their European win over the Spanish side's La Liga pace-setters, who had 13 victories from 14 games before their arrival at Anfield, was the perfect remedy for a Liverpool team aiming to recover from the wounds of a difficult spell of his tenure. It was also excellent groundwork for the challenge ahead at the Etihad Stadium: a rival that wants to play out, which doesn't defend in a defensive block and poses an clear and dangerous attacking prowess.

“It will be similar a little bit,” stated Virgil van Dijk, who dominated Haaland at Anfield the previous campaign. “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 precise and I think we showed we were solid collectively defensively.”

Reasons for Success

The manager's reasons 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 defeats in seven games. More recovery time, not conceding first, and the improving fitness 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 the familiar midfield trio of Dominik Szoboszlai, Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch enhanced the protection to Liverpool’s defense.
• The welcome reappearance at full-back of Andy Robertson, who has started the last three victories, brought composure and authority to a defence.
• Florian Wirtz impressed again in the Champions League but not from the attacking midfield position he has occupied in the Premier League.

Dominant Display

Szoboszlai was again Liverpool’s engine in the midfield. His national team skipper is flourishing currently and has cemented his place as a key figure in Slot’s side.

“Dom is consistently reliable,” commented Van Dijk. “His role is crucial. The work rate he brings on the pitch is incredible, the skill that he has is exceptional and he is developing with every outing.”

Next Challenge

Szoboszlai started up front alongside Curtis Jones and scored at the Etihad previously as Liverpool surprised City by switching to a alternative formation. That win in February put Liverpool 11 points clear at the top with 11 games to play. This weekend they will be playing catch-up but, as the manager emphasized after defeating Madrid, there is a long way to go for Liverpool to stage a recovery.