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Arne Slot has called for another performance like Liverpool’s display versus Real Madrid when the title holders travel to Manchester City on Sunday. For Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior on Tuesday, substitute Erling Haaland this coming weekend. Stopping another of the world's best attackers, while keeping a third clean sheet consecutively, could strengthen Slot's declaration that Liverpool remain in the chase for the major trophies.

Ideal Cure for Recent Woes

Their European win over the Spanish side's La Liga pace-setters, who had 13 wins from 14 games before their arrival 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 excellent groundwork for the challenge ahead at the Etihad Stadium: a rival that prefers to attack, which doesn't defend in a defensive block and poses an obvious, rampant threat.

“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 precise and I think we showed we were solid collectively defensively.”

Key Factors

Slot’s list for the successful performance against Madrid as well as Villa on Saturday – were consistent with his explanations for the earlier struggles 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 after injury-hit pre-seasons were cited. They backed up his previous arguments and decision 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 full-back of Andy Robertson, who has started the last three victories, brought composure and leadership 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 engine in the centre. The Hungary captain is excelling this season and has established himself as a key figure in Slot’s side.

“What you see is what you get from Dom,” said Van Dijk. “His role is crucial. The energy he brings during matches is incredible, the quality that he has is outstanding and he is learning with every outing.”

Looking Ahead

The midfielder started in attack alongside Curtis Jones and found the net at the Etihad last season as Slot caught City cold by switching to a 4-2-2-2. That win in February took Liverpool 11 points clear 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.