Liverpool face Manchester City on Sunday in what Arne Slot views as a test of progress, not title ambition. Liverpool’s title defence collapsed months ago, but Slot believes his team has improved since a damaging 3-0 defeat at the Etihad in November. That loss, part of a run that derailed the season, exposed flaws in pressing, intensity, and buildup play. Virgil van Dijk admitted City outplayed Liverpool for long spells, despite lingering frustration over a disallowed goal and penalty decisions.
Since then, Liverpool have shown signs of recovery, going unbeaten in 13 games and improving in both penalty areas. Recent wins against Qarabag and Newcastle reflected stronger pressing, fewer chances conceded, and rising form from new signings Hugo Ekitiké, Florian Wirtz, and Milos Kerkez. Slot says the biggest improvement has come off the ball, with higher work rate and more coordinated pressing. He believes this will be tested against one of the best possession teams in the world.
Wirtz’s growing influence has stood out, especially his defensive work, and his developing partnership with Ekitiké could trouble City. With little margin for error in the race for a top-four finish, Liverpool need momentum and belief. Alexis Mac Allister said the team feels stronger than before but accepted they must prove it on the pitch.
