Liverpool’s recent form, marked by three draws in six games, might raise eyebrows in other circumstances. Concerns about whether the team is tightening up or if their favorable early fixtures have masked vulnerabilities could seem valid. However, these issues are rendered less significant by the broader context of the title race. Before this recent run, Liverpool held a nine-point lead over Arsenal in second place. Despite their latest draw against Manchester United, they remain six points clear with a game in hand.
The past month of fixtures has been intense, filled with drama and excitement, but the overall standings have seen little change. Liverpool were not at their best against United and could have faced a surprise defeat. Yet, the chasing pack Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester City have consistently faltered. Over the last nine matchdays, these three teams have collectively managed one or fewer wins in seven instances. Nottingham Forest, a surprising contender, could reduce the gap to six points with a game in hand if they beat Wolves. However, sustaining their current form into the second half of the season remains a challenge for Nuno Espírito Santo’s side.
Manchester City, 12 points behind Liverpool with an extra game played, seem to be out of the race. Back-to-back wins over Leicester and West Ham have revitalized their campaign slightly, with Erling Haaland rediscovering his scoring touch. Yet, defensive vulnerabilities remain, and upcoming away games against Brentford and Ipswich could prove testing. A brutal six-week stretch of fixtures looms, featuring matches against Chelsea, Arsenal, Liverpool, Tottenham, and Forest, alongside a decisive European tie against Club Brugge.
Chelsea’s holiday period has been particularly disappointing, yielding only two points from four games. Their over-reliance on Cole Palmer and a tendency to chase games with a lack of tactical discipline have exposed their inexperience. This fragility has tempered any serious talk of a title challenge, as even manager Enzo Maresca had anticipated struggles when under pressure.
Arsenal, meanwhile, might feel the most regret. After overcoming injuries, illness, and a deficit to beat Brentford, they appeared poised to mount a serious challenge. Their fixture list has been more demanding than Liverpool’s, with most of their toughest away games already played. Yet, they faltered against Brighton, dropping points in a game they controlled early on. A contentious penalty decision played a part, but Arsenal’s inability to maintain their advantage has been a recurring theme. Points dropped in at least five of their nine league games this season have felt self-inflicted. Had they capitalized on their opportunities, the pressure on Liverpool could have been significantly higher.
The thrilling draw at Anfield was arguably one of the season’s best matches. Manchester United showed marked improvement after a poor run, demonstrating their potential under Ruben Amorim. Their early celebrations following Lisandro Martínez’s goal reflected disbelief, and their quick concession of an equalizer highlighted a lack of composure. For Liverpool, the performance was far from convincing, with Trent Alexander-Arnold struggling and the midfield lacking control. Yet, their substantial lead provides a cushion, diminishing the immediate impact of these concerns. Without consistent pressure from their rivals, Liverpool’s holiday wobble may ultimately prove inconsequential.
