🔗 Share this article Following Neutralizing Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius, Rejuvenated Liverpool Hone In On Haaland Arne Slot has called for another performance like the team's showing against Real Madrid as the Premier League champions face Manchester City on Sunday. In place of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior on Tuesday, substitute Erling Haaland on Sunday. Shutting down one more of the game’s finest strikers, while keeping a third shutout consecutively, could strengthen Slot's post-Madrid message 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 wins from 14 games prior to coming at Anfield, was an ideal solution for a Liverpool team aiming to recover from the wounds of the worst run of his tenure. It was also excellent groundwork for the challenge ahead at the Etihad Stadium: an opponent that prefers to attack, which doesn't defend in a defensive block and poses an clear and dangerous attacking prowess. “It will be similar a little bit,” said Virgil van Dijk, who dominated 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 The manager's reasons for the successful performance against Madrid – and Aston Villa on Saturday – were consistent with his analysis of the earlier struggles during a run of six defeats in seven matches. Additional rest, avoiding early goals, and the improving fitness of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley after injury-hit pre-seasons were cited. This supported his previous arguments and decision 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 boosted the defense to Liverpool’s defense. The overdue return at full-back of Andy Robertson, who has started the last three victories, restored calmness 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. His national team skipper is flourishing currently and has established himself as a leader in Slot’s side. “What you see is what you get from Dom,” said Van Dijk. “His role is crucial. The work rate he brings on the pitch is remarkable, the quality that he has is outstanding and he is learning each and every game.” Looking Ahead Szoboszlai started up front alongside Curtis Jones and scored at the Etihad previously as Slot caught City cold by adopting a alternative formation. Victory on that February day took Liverpool well ahead at the top with 11 matches to play. On Sunday they will be playing catch-up but, as the manager emphasized after beating Real, there is a long way to go for Liverpool to stage a recovery.