🔗 Share this article After Neutralizing Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior, Revived Liverpool Target Haaland Arne Slot has called for a repeat of Liverpool’s display against Real Madrid as the Premier League champions travel to Manchester City this weekend. For Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior in midweek, substitute Erling Haaland on Sunday. Neutralizing another of the world's best attackers, and securing a third shutout consecutively, would reinforce Slot's declaration that Liverpool remain in contention for the biggest prizes. Perfect Remedy for Recent Woes Their European win over the Spanish side's La Liga pace-setters, who had 13 victories from 14 matches before their arrival at Anfield, was an ideal solution for a Liverpool team looking to heal the wounds of the worst run of Slot’s reign. Additionally, it served as excellent groundwork for what awaits at the Etihad Stadium: an opponent that wants to play out, that will not sit in a defensive block and carries an clear and dangerous attacking prowess. “There will be some similarities,” said Virgil van Dijk, who dominated Haaland at Anfield last season. “We are facing a high-flying side 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 The manager's reasons for the successful performance against Madrid – and Aston 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 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 last season’s midfield core of Dominik Szoboszlai, Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch boosted the defense to Liverpool’s defense. The welcome reappearance at left-back of Andy Robertson, who has started the last three victories, restored calmness and authority to a back four. The German playmaker enjoyed another good night in the Champions League but not from the attacking midfield position he usually plays in the Premier League. Dominant Display Once more, Szoboszlai served as Liverpool’s driving influence in the centre. The Hungary captain is flourishing this season and has cemented his place as a leader in Slot’s side. “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 exceptional and he is learning with every outing.” Looking Ahead The midfielder started up front alongside Curtis Jones and scored at the Etihad previously as Slot caught City cold by adopting a 4-2-2-2. That win in February put Liverpool 11 points clear at the top with 11 matches 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.