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Liverpool's manager requested another performance like the team's showing against Real Madrid as the Premier League champions face Manchester City on Sunday. In place of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior on Tuesday, read Erling Haaland on Sunday. Stopping another of the world's best attackers, while securing a third shutout in a row, would reinforce the manager's post-Madrid message that Liverpool remain in the chase for the biggest prizes.

Ideal Cure for Poor Form

Their European win over the Spanish side's La Liga leaders, who had 13 victories from 14 matches prior to coming at Anfield, was the perfect remedy for a Liverpool team aiming to recover from the wounds of the worst run of Slot’s reign. It was also perfect preparation for the challenge ahead at the Etihad Stadium: a rival that wants to play out, that will not sit in a defensive block and poses 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 precise and I think we showed we were solid collectively defensively.”

Reasons for Success

Slot’s list for the successful performance against Madrid as well as Villa on Saturday – were consistent with his explanations for why things went wrong during a run of six losses in seven matches. More recovery time, not conceding first, and better conditioning of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley following disrupted preparations played a part. This supported his previous arguments and choice to sacrifice 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 enhanced the protection to Liverpool’s defense.
• The overdue return at left-back of Andy Robertson, who has started the last three victories, brought composure and authority to a back four.
• Florian Wirtz impressed again in the Champions League but not from the No 10 role he usually plays in the Premier League.

Dominant Display

Szoboszlai was again Liverpool’s driving influence in the midfield. The Hungary captain is excelling this season and has cemented his place as a key figure in the team.

“Dom is consistently reliable,” said Van Dijk. “His role is crucial. The energy he brings on the pitch is incredible, the skill that he has is outstanding and he is learning with every outing.”

Next Challenge

The midfielder started in attack alongside Curtis Jones and found the net at the Etihad last season as Liverpool surprised City by adopting a 4-2-2-2. That win in February took Liverpool 11 points clear at the summit with 11 games to play. On Sunday they will be chasing the leaders but, as the manager emphasized after defeating Madrid, there is plenty of road left for Liverpool to mount a comeback.