Following Neutralizing Mbappé and Vinícius, Revived Liverpool Hone In On Haaland

Liverpool's manager requested an encore of the team's showing against Real Madrid as the Premier League champions visit Manchester City this weekend. In place of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior in midweek, read Erling Haaland this coming weekend. Shutting down another of the world's best attackers, and securing a third clean sheet in a row, would reinforce the manager's declaration that Liverpool remain in contention for the biggest prizes.

Ideal Cure for Poor Form

Their European win over the Spanish side's La Liga pace-setters, who had 13 wins from 14 matches before their arrival at Anfield, was the perfect remedy for a Liverpool team aiming to recover from the wounds of a difficult spell of Slot’s reign. It was also excellent groundwork for the challenge ahead at the Etihad Stadium: an opponent that prefers to attack, that will not sit in a low block and poses an clear and dangerous attacking prowess.

“There will be some similarities,” said Virgil van Dijk, who dominated Haaland at Anfield the previous campaign. “We're up against a high-flying side 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 last weekend – aligned with his explanations for the earlier struggles during a run of six defeats in seven matches. Additional rest, not conceding first, and better conditioning of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley following disrupted preparations were cited. They backed up 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 leadership to a defence.
• The German playmaker enjoyed another good night in the Champions League but not from the No 10 role he usually plays in the Premier League.

Szoboszlai’s Influence

Szoboszlai was again Liverpool’s driving influence in the centre. The Hungary captain is flourishing currently and has established himself 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 remarkable, the skill that he has is exceptional and he is learning each and every game.”

Looking Ahead

Szoboszlai started in attack with Curtis Jones and scored at the Etihad previously as Liverpool surprised City by adopting a alternative formation. Victory on that February day took Liverpool 11 points clear at the top with 11 matches to play. On Sunday they will be chasing the leaders but, as Slot reminded everyone after beating Real, there is a long way to go for Liverpool to mount a comeback.