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Arne Slot requested a repeat of Liverpool’s display against Real Madrid as the Premier League champions visit Manchester City this weekend. For Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior on Tuesday, read Erling Haaland this coming weekend. Neutralizing another of the world's best attackers, while keeping a third clean sheet in a row, could strengthen Slot's declaration that Liverpool remain in the chase for the major trophies.

Perfect Remedy for Poor Form

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 aiming to recover from the wounds of a difficult spell of Slot’s reign. Additionally, it served as perfect preparation for what awaits at the Etihad Stadium: a rival that prefers to attack, which doesn't defend in a low block and poses an clear and dangerous attacking prowess.

“There will be some similarities,” stated Virgil van Dijk, who mastered Haaland at Anfield the previous campaign. “We are facing a very in-form team like today and a striker, like today, who was in form. When that happens you have to be spot-on 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 on Saturday – aligned with his explanations for the earlier struggles during a run of six defeats 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. This supported his earlier points and choice 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 each of Liverpool’s past three wins, brought composure and leadership to a back four.
• The German playmaker enjoyed another good night in the Champions League but not in the No 10 role he usually plays in the Premier League.

Dominant Display

Szoboszlai was again Liverpool’s engine in the centre. The Hungary captain is flourishing currently and has cemented his place as a key figure in Slot’s side.

“Dom is consistently reliable,” commented Van Dijk. “He is very important. The energy he brings on the pitch is remarkable, the quality that he has is outstanding and he is learning each and every game.”

Next Challenge

The midfielder started in attack alongside Curtis Jones and scored at the Etihad last season as Liverpool surprised City by adopting a alternative formation. Victory on that February day put Liverpool well ahead at the top with 11 games to play. On Sunday they will be chasing the leaders but, as Slot reminded everyone after defeating Madrid, there is plenty of road left for Liverpool to mount a comeback.