Following Neutralizing Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius, Rejuvenated Liverpool Focus On Haaland
Arne Slot demanded another performance like the team's showing against Real Madrid as the title holders visit Manchester City on Sunday. For Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior in midweek, read Erling Haaland on Sunday. Neutralizing one more of the game’s finest strikers, and keeping a third clean sheet consecutively, could strengthen Slot's post-Madrid message that Liverpool remain in contention for the biggest prizes.
Perfect Remedy for Recent Woes
The Champions League victory over Xabi Alonso’s La Liga pace-setters, who had 13 victories from 14 games prior to coming at Anfield, was an ideal solution for a Liverpool team aiming to recover from the wounds of a difficult spell of Slot’s reign. It was also excellent groundwork for what awaits at the Etihad Stadium: an opponent that wants to play out, which doesn't defend in a low block and carries an clear and dangerous attacking prowess.
“It will be similar a little bit,” stated 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 solid collectively defensively.”
Key Factors
The manager's reasons for the successful performance against Madrid as well as Villa last weekend – were consistent with his analysis of the earlier struggles during a run of six losses in seven matches. More recovery time, not conceding first, and better conditioning of players such as Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley after injury-hit pre-seasons played a part. This supported his earlier points and decision to prioritize less the Carabao Cup by fielding a weakened squad against Crystal Palace.
- The comeback of the familiar midfield trio of Dominik Szoboszlai, Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch enhanced the protection to Liverpool’s backline.
- The welcome reappearance at left-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
Once more, Szoboszlai served as Liverpool’s driving influence in the midfield. The Hungary captain is flourishing this season and has established himself as a leader in the team.
“Dom is consistently reliable,” commented Van Dijk. “His role is crucial. The work rate he brings on the pitch is incredible, the skill that he has is outstanding and he is learning with every outing.”
Next Challenge
The midfielder started in attack alongside Curtis Jones and scored at the Etihad previously as Slot caught City cold by switching to a alternative formation. Victory on that February day 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 defeating Madrid, there is plenty of road left for Liverpool to mount a comeback.
