Arne Slot Reflects on Liverpool's Challenging Season and Title Race Prospects
Arne Slot has described Liverpool's first half of the 2025-26 season as a constant battle, highlighting Arsenal and Manchester City as the main contenders for the Premier League title. Slot acknowledges that while Aston Villa are close, they are not currently in the title race.
Liverpool sit 12 points behind the leaders Arsenal after a 0-0 draw with Leeds on New Year’s Day. Despite this deficit, the team is unbeaten in their last eight matches and has returned to a Champions League qualification position following the club's worst run in 71 years. However, Slot notes that Liverpool's performances remain unconvincing.
The team has shown defensive improvement during their unbeaten run but continues to struggle with chance creation and maintaining balance in the final third of the pitch. Slot points out that the team often relies on moments of individual brilliance or set pieces to unlock tightly contested games. Earlier in the season, Mohamed Salah was dropped from the lineup, and the unbeaten streak began after that decision.
Looking ahead, Joe Gomez could return for Liverpool’s upcoming trip to Fulham. Slot also praised former set-piece coach Aaron Briggs, suggesting he deserves more opportunities at the highest level. The recent 0-0 draw with Leeds marked Liverpool’s first goalless draw in 84 matches under Slot’s management.
