Liverpool manager Arne Slot says his side heads to Manchester City on Sunday in strong form, following back-to-back wins that have arrested a troubling run for the champions.

Victories over Aston Villa in the Premier League and Real Madrid in the Champions League have lifted spirits at Anfield. Slot described the past week as a positive turnaround, particularly after the performance against the Spanish giants.

“I only focus on ourselves. Our main focus is on consistency at the moment,” Slot said. “We have lost a few games—much more than usual. Now we have won two. We are focused on improving, getting players fit, and we’ll see where that leads to.”

Slot emphasized that the team’s strong performance against Real Madrid was no fluke. “We have reached that level in other games too when the opponent’s style was similar. We’ve always known we can do what we did against Madrid. It helped that Real did what we expected, though most games are different from the norm.”

He added that Manchester City will present a familiar but formidable challenge. “There’s still a lot of work to be done for the players to get a performance like that. We can expect City’s usual style, but the challenge is they are very, very good at it.”

“Consistently Losing”

Slot also reflected on Liverpool’s recent struggles. “We were very consistent—but consistently losing! That wasn’t the idea. The aim is to do things consistently right.”

He acknowledged the difficulty of facing City away from home. “Every away game is tough. City have lost just two away games this season, Arsenal being the exception. It’s a very interesting game to look forward to. I always make sure to watch Liverpool versus City—it’s always worth seeing so many great players in action.”

Wirtz Showing Promise

Slot is encouraged by the progress of £125 million signing Florian Wirtz, who impressed in his start against Real Madrid. “Florian can play in multiple positions. He played off the left in a 3-4-3 at Leverkusen, and before that as a number 10. We want him in positions where he can create the most chances, either centrally or slightly off the wings.”

On Alexander Isak’s fitness, Slot urged patience. “He will train with the team again after three weeks out. Rehab helps, but it doesn’t replicate match conditions. We need to give him time.”

Szoboszlai’s Midfield Impact

Dominik Szoboszlai has been a standout in midfield, Slot noted. “He’s been outstanding all season, especially his work without the ball. In the last two games, he’s performed above his usual standards.”

Left-Back Debate: Robbo vs Kerkez

Slot defended veteran Andrew Robertson amid questions over the left-back position. “He has done really well in the last three games, playing almost 90 minutes in a congested schedule. Being over 30 doesn’t matter if a player performs—look at Virgil van Dijk, Mo Salah, and Robbo—they all played key roles last season.”

He also praised Mohamed Salah’s defensive work. “Mo has been working harder off the ball, which helps the team a lot. It’s important he contributes not just with goals but by assisting and helping defensively, like he did against City last season.”

Alisson Set to Return

Slot confirmed that goalkeeper Alisson Becker will return for Liverpool’s first game after the international break. The Brazilian has been recovering from a hamstring injury suffered last month.

“It’s a boost to have Alisson back,” Slot concluded, looking ahead to Sunday’s blockbuster.