Arne Slot has consistently emphasized that this is a crucial moment to assess past performances and, more importantly, focus on the future as teams battle for the Premier League title.
Ahead of Liverpool’s match against Tottenham, Slot reiterated his viewpoint: “As I’ve said for months, evaluate the standings after 19 games, when all teams have played against the same opponents.”
He also highlighted key factors, such as Arsenal’s early-season red cards, which resulted in dropped points, and Liverpool’s difficulties following their red card in the draw against Fulham.
Currently, Liverpool holds a six-point advantage over Arsenal with a game in hand, but recent results demonstrate how quickly the situation can change.
For example, Chelsea went from potential Christmas leaders to being 10 points behind Liverpool after a series of poor performances.
In terms of season comparisons, Liverpool has accumulated five more points than last year from similar fixtures, while Arsenal and Manchester City have faced setbacks, with City trailing their previous tally by a significant 12 points. Despite improvements, Chelsea remains far from the top.
Liverpool currently leads the “big six” clubs in terms of results, but City faces a huge challenge in overcoming a 14-point deficit. Chelsea also faces long odds given their failure to finish in the top four last season.
The title race is shaping up as a direct competition between Liverpool and Arsenal, although Liverpool faces a more difficult schedule, with seven away games against 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 later in the season raises concerns. Meanwhile, Arsenal benefits from a favorable fixture list with more home games against lower-ranked teams.
Both teams have dealt with defensive injuries, but Arsenal’s starting defense has played together more frequently than Liverpool’s, giving them a potential advantage as the season progresses.
Liverpool’s past title-winning experience could be an asset, though they’ve faltered in tight races before, as has Arsenal in recent seasons.
Liverpool faces a tough run-in, with matches against Chelsea, Brighton, Tottenham, and Arsenal. In contrast, Arsenal’s remaining fixtures appear more favorable, with home games against lower-ranked teams.
Although Arsenal might have the advantage based on their schedule, Liverpool’s current points lead keeps them firmly in contention. For now, the Premier League title race is still wide open.