By Michael Odegbe
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has sent a bold message to critics and rivals alike, claiming the defending Premier League champions haven’t finished this season yet, even as they prepare for a tough clash with league leaders Arsenal.
The Reds head to the Emirates on Thursday, sitting fourth in the league, a worrying 14 points behind the Gunners, and their title defense reeling from a lopsided run of results. However, Slot remains convinced that Liverpool’s story this season is far from over.
“We’re unbeaten in nine games, but we’ve had too many draws,” Slot admitted during his pre-match press conference. “We’re not where we want to be, but I believe in this team. If everyone is fit and ready, we can still do something special.”
Liverpool’s recent form has painted a mixed picture. After nine defeats in twelve matches at the start of the season, they stabilized with a nine-match unbeaten run, although four of those ended in frustrating draws, including a goalless draw against Leeds and a 2-2 draw with Fulham at the start of 2026.
Despite the inconsistency, Slot pointed to flashes of brilliance that prove Liverpool still possesses elite quality. The Reds surprised Europe with home victories over Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid, and in the Champions League, they thrashed Eintracht Frankfurt 5-1 away.
“We’ve beaten some very good teams this season,” Slot said. “That shows the talent is there. What’s missing is consistency.”
This inconsistency has proven costly. Heavy home defeats to Crystal Palace, Nottingham Forest, and PSV Eindhoven have contributed to Liverpool’s growing lead over Arsenal, who are chasing their first league title in over two decades.
Still, Slot drew confidence from Liverpool’s history of achieving success at the most unexpected moments.
“This club has shown time and again that even if league form isn’t perfect, they can still win trophies,” he said.
With Liverpool still in contention for the FA Cup and Champions League, Slot sees the clash with Arsenal as more than just another league match—it’s a benchmark.
“There’s something to play for,” he emphasized. “Matches like this show you exactly where you are.”
The Dutchman was also quick to praise Arsenal, describing Mikel Arteta’s side as “the complete package” and worthy of the league leaders.
As they await the Emirates, one thing is clear: while Arsenal may have momentum, Liverpool arrive with belief, pride, and a manager convinced that something special can still happen.
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