Liverpool are gearing up for a significant challenge as they host Chelsea in what promises to be their first major test of the Premier League season.
Manager Arne Slot has enjoyed an outstanding start to his tenure at Anfield, breaking records by winning nine of his first 10 games in charge. Despite this remarkable run, Slot remains cautious, acknowledging that Liverpool has yet to face a top-tier side—until now.
Chelsea, in excellent form, are set to provide Liverpool with their biggest challenge so far. According to Jambobet, the best sports prediction site, this is a must-watch fixture with high stakes for both teams.
Dutchman Arne Slot has quickly made a name for himself at Liverpool, leading the team to the top of the Premier League standings with 18 points from seven matches.
With an impressive goal difference of +11, having scored 13 goals and conceded only two, Liverpool find themselves one point ahead of title rivals Manchester City and Arsenal.
However, Slot remains measured in his assessment of the team’s performance so far, pointing out that they have yet to face any of the top half teams.
“I looked at the league table and thought, ‘OK, which teams did we face until now, and where are they in the standings? Are they in the top half or the bottom half?'” Slot said, reflecting on the challenges ahead. “There are a lot of difficult teams we still have to face… let’s see where we are after that when it comes to conceding goals.”
Liverpool’s upcoming fixtures include tough matches against Arsenal and Manchester City, with Chelsea being their first major test. Slot’s side will need to stay focused, especially as they navigate this gruelling period with 10 games across three competitions.
The outcome of these fixtures could significantly shape Liverpool’s season and their pursuit of domestic and European glory.
Chelsea’s Formidable Away Record
Chelsea, under new management, have also hit their stride, particularly in away matches. The Blues have won all three of their league games on the road this season, scoring 10 goals and conceding just two.
They currently sit fourth in the Premier League with 14 points, trailing Liverpool by four points.
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Chelsea’s attack, led by in-form players like Raheem Sterling and Mykhailo Mudryk, has been firing on all cylinders. Their impressive away record, combined with their recent form, makes them a formidable opponent for Liverpool.
This match could serve as a barometer for both teams, highlighting whether Liverpool’s strong start can be sustained against top competition, and whether Chelsea can continue their rise in the league.
Liverpool’s Injury Concerns
Liverpool’s tough stretch of matches comes at a challenging time, with first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker set to miss most of the crucial games due to a hamstring injury.
The Brazilian shot-stopper, widely regarded as one of the best in the world, is expected to be sidelined until November 24, missing key clashes against the likes of Arsenal and Manchester City.
However, Arne Slot is confident that his backup goalkeeper, Caoimhin Kelleher, will step up in Alisson’s absence. “Alisson is our clear No. 1,” Slot said. “He’s the best goalkeeper in the world, so it’s always a blow when he gets injured. But in almost every position, we have a second option that is also really good. Caoimhin Kelleher has already shown that.”
Kelleher has proven his abilities in previous matches for Liverpool, especially in domestic cup competitions, and his calm presence between the posts could be crucial as Liverpool navigate this tough period.
This weekend’s Premier League fixtures also include other high-stakes matches. Manchester United host Brentford at Old Trafford amid ongoing speculation about manager Erik ten Hag’s future.
The Dutchman has been under significant pressure after United’s poor start to the season, which has left them languishing in 14th place.
However, a goalless draw against Aston Villa before the international break provided some respite, and United will be eager to bounce back with a victory.
Meanwhile, Arsenal travel to Bournemouth, although their plans may be disrupted by concerns over the fitness of star winger Bukayo Saka. Saka, who suffered a hamstring injury during England’s Nations League match against Greece, is expected to undergo further assessment ahead of the weekend.
At the other end of the table, teams like Ipswich Town, Crystal Palace, Southampton, and Wolves are still searching for their first league wins of the season. Ipswich, who currently sit near the bottom of the standings, will feel confident heading into their match against Everton, a team that is just one point ahead of them.
