Arne Slot has consistently stressed that this moment is a prime opportunity to reflect on past performances and, more importantly, to focus on the future in the battle for the Premier League title.
Before Liverpool’s recent match against Tottenham, Slot reiterated his stance: “As I’ve been saying for months, assess the table after 19 games when everyone has faced the same opponents.”
He also pointed out factors such as Arsenal’s early-season red cards, which led to dropped points, and Liverpool’s struggles after receiving a red card in their draw with Fulham.
Currently, Liverpool holds a six-point lead over Arsenal with a game in hand, but recent results show how quickly things can change.
For instance, Chelsea went from potential Christmas leaders to sitting 10 points behind Liverpool after a series of poor results.
When comparing seasons, Liverpool has earned five more points than last year from corresponding fixtures, while Arsenal and Manchester City have seen setbacks, with City trailing their previous tally by a striking 12 points. Despite Chelsea’s improvements, they are still distant from the top.
Liverpool currently leads the mini-table of results among the traditional “big six” clubs, but City faces an enormous challenge in overcoming a 14-point deficit. Chelsea also faces long odds given their history of finishing outside the top four last season.
The title race is shaping up to be a direct battle between Liverpool and Arsenal, although Liverpool has a tougher schedule, with trips to seven of the current top 10 teams, compared to Arsenal’s three.
Historical trends show little difference in results between Liverpool and Arsenal in corresponding fixtures, though Liverpool’s tendency to drop points in the latter half of seasons raises concerns. Meanwhile, Arsenal’s fixture schedule benefits from their proximity to London clubs, reducing travel fatigue.
Both teams have faced defensive issues due to injuries, but Arsenal’s starting backline has played together more often than Liverpool’s, which could give them an advantage as the season progresses.
Liverpool’s previous title-winning experience may be valuable, but they have stumbled in tight races before, as has Arsenal in recent seasons.
Liverpool faces a tough final stretch with matches against Chelsea, Brighton, Tottenham, and Arsenal. In contrast, Arsenal’s remaining fixtures are more favorable, with home games against lower-ranked teams.
Although Arsenal might seem to have the edge based on their fixtures, Liverpool’s current points lead keeps them in strong contention. For now, the Premier League title race remains wide open.
