🔗 Share this article Following Containing Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius, Rejuvenated Liverpool Target Haaland Arne Slot demanded another performance like the team's showing versus Real Madrid as the Premier League champions travel to Manchester City on Sunday. For Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior on Tuesday, substitute Erling Haaland this coming weekend. Stopping another of the game’s finest strikers, and keeping a third shutout in a row, could strengthen the manager's declaration that Liverpool remain in contention for the major trophies. Perfect Remedy for Poor Form The Champions League victory over Xabi Alonso’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 aiming to recover from the wounds of a difficult spell of his tenure. Additionally, it served as excellent groundwork for what awaits 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. “There will be some similarities,” 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 in form. When that happens you have to be spot-on and I think we showed we were good as a team defensively.” Key Factors The manager's reasons for why things went right against Madrid as well as Villa on Saturday – were consistent with his analysis of why things went wrong during a run of six defeats in seven matches. Additional rest, avoiding early goals, and better conditioning of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley after injury-hit pre-seasons were cited. They backed up his earlier points and choice to prioritize less the Carabao Cup by fielding a weakened squad against Crystal Palace. The comeback of last season’s midfield core of Dominik Szoboszlai, Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch boosted the defense 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. The German playmaker impressed again in the Champions League but not from the attacking midfield position he has occupied in the Premier League. Dominant Display Once more, Szoboszlai served as Liverpool’s engine in the centre. The Hungary captain is excelling this season and has cemented his place as a leader in the team. “What you see is what you get from Dom,” commented Van Dijk. “He is very important. The energy he brings during matches is incredible, the skill that he has is exceptional and he is learning with every outing.” Next Challenge The midfielder started up front with Curtis Jones and found the net at the Etihad last season as Liverpool surprised City by switching to a 4-2-2-2. Victory on that February day put Liverpool 11 points clear at the top with 11 games to play. On Sunday they will be playing catch-up but, as the manager emphasized after beating Real, there is plenty of road left for Liverpool to stage a recovery.