🔗 Share this article After Containing Mbappé and Vinícius, Resurgent Liverpool Hone In On Haaland Liverpool's manager demanded another performance like the team's showing against Real Madrid as the Premier League champions face Manchester City this weekend. For Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior on Tuesday, substitute Erling Haaland this coming weekend. Stopping another of the world's best attackers, while securing a third shutout consecutively, would reinforce Slot's declaration that Liverpool remain in contention for the major trophies. Perfect Remedy for Poor Form Their European win over Xabi Alonso’s La Liga leaders, who had 13 victories from 14 matches before their arrival at Anfield, was the perfect remedy for a Liverpool team looking to heal the wounds of a difficult spell of Slot’s reign. It was also perfect preparation for what awaits at the Etihad Stadium: an opponent that wants to play out, which doesn't defend in a low block and poses an clear and dangerous attacking prowess. “It will be similar a little bit,” said Virgil van Dijk, who mastered Haaland at Anfield the previous campaign. “We're up against a high-flying side 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 good as a team defensively.” Reasons for Success The manager's reasons for the successful performance against Madrid as well as Villa on Saturday – were consistent with his analysis of the earlier struggles during a run of six defeats 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 prioritize less the Carabao Cup by fielding a weakened squad 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 full-back of Andy Robertson, who has started each of Liverpool’s past three wins, brought composure and authority to a back four. The German playmaker impressed again in the Champions League but not from the No 10 role he has occupied in the Premier League. Dominant Display Once more, Szoboszlai served as Liverpool’s driving influence in the centre. The Hungary captain is excelling 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 during matches is incredible, the skill that he has is outstanding and he is learning each and every game.” Next Challenge Szoboszlai started up front with Curtis Jones and scored at the Etihad last season as Liverpool surprised City by adopting a 4-2-2-2. That win in February took Liverpool 11 points clear at the top with 11 matches to play. This weekend they will be playing catch-up but, as Slot reminded everyone after beating Real, there is a long way to go for Liverpool to mount a comeback.