As we reach late January 2026, with the Premier League season approaching its midpoint, Liverpool FC under Arne Slot finds itself in a competitive but challenging position. After 22 matches, the Reds sit fourth in the table with 10 wins, 6 draws, and 6 losses, totaling 36 points. This places them behind leaders Arsenal (on around 50 points), Manchester City, and Aston Villa (both on 43 points), but ahead of rivals like Manchester United. Their goal difference stands at +4, with 33 goals scored and 29 conceded, reflecting a side capable of exciting attacking play yet vulnerable at the back.
Season Start: Early Promise and Momentum
The campaign began brightly on August 15, 2025, with a convincing 4-2 home victory over Bournemouth at Anfield, signaling intent from the defending champions. This was followed by a dramatic 3-2 away win at Newcastle United on August 23, where young forward Rio Ngumoha scored a dramatic 100th-minute winner to spark early title talk. The strong start continued with a gritty 1-0 home triumph over Arsenal on August 31 and a hard-fought 2-1 Merseyside derby win against Everton on September 20, keeping local bragging rights firmly at Anfield.
These results showcased Slot’s tactical evolution: a more controlled, possession-based style that retained Liverpool’s intensity while being more selective in pressing. Early form suggested the transition from Jürgen Klopp’s era was smoother than many anticipated.
Beyond the League: Cup Progress and Broader Context
In cup competitions, Liverpool achieved a notable milestone with a 2-1 EFL Cup win over Southampton on September 23, marking six consecutive one-goal-margin victories—a club first. These runs provide valuable momentum and rotation opportunities amid league struggles.
Slot has acknowledged areas for improvement in recent press conferences, noting the team has been better lately but still falls short of its potential. The manager emphasizes focusing on positives while demanding higher standards, a balanced approach that resonates with fans.
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Mid-Season Struggles: A Testing Run of Form
However, as fixtures intensified, inconsistencies emerged. A 2-1 away defeat to Crystal Palace on September 27 exposed defensive issues, followed by a painful 1-2 home loss to Manchester United in October. November proved particularly tough, with a 3-0 thrashing away at Manchester City on November 9 and a shocking 0-3 home defeat to Nottingham Forest on November 22. These results contributed to a worrying streak of four consecutive Premier League losses and five defeats in six games at one point, testing squad depth and morale.
Despite the dip, Liverpool showed resilience with a 0-2 away win at West Ham on November 30. The festive and early January period shifted toward a frustrating pattern of draws: 1-1 at home to Sunderland (December 3), a thrilling 3-3 away at Leeds United (December 6), 2-0 home win over Brighton (December 13), 1-2 away victory at Tottenham (December 20), 2-1 home win against Wolves (December 27), 0-0 home draw with Leeds (January 1), 2-2 away at Fulham (January 4), 0-0 away at Arsenal (January 8), and 1-1 home draw with Burnley (January 17). This run of multiple draws highlights improved defensive organization but a lack of cutting edge in attack during key moments.
Key Transfers and Squad Changes
Off the field, the summer window brought major upheaval. The tragic loss of Diogo Jota in a car accident on July 3, 2025, led to the retirement of his No. 20 shirt. Departures of key players like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Luis DÃaz created gaps, but bold signings aimed to address them. Alexander Isak arrived from Newcastle for a British-record £125 million on September 1, while Hugo Ekitike joined from Eintracht Frankfurt for £69 million earlier in July.
These additions have started to pay dividends. Ekitike has emerged as a top scorer for the club with 8 goals in 19 appearances, proving clinical in front of goal. Cody Gakpo contributes 5 goals in 20 games, showing versatility, while Ryan Gravenberch has surprised with 4 goals from midfield. Mohamed Salah, despite a slight dip, has reached 250 career goals for Liverpool with 4 goals and 3 assists in 14 outings. Florian Wirtz adds creativity with 3 goals, and Virgil van Dijk remains a defensive leader (with 2 goals of his own). Alisson Becker has been ever-present in goal.
Looking Ahead: Second-Half Ambitions
With the second half of the season underway, Liverpool’s remaining fixtures offer real opportunities. Clashes against lower-table sides and pivotal matches against title rivals could propel them higher. The blend of new signings like Isak and Ekitike with established stars like Salah and van Dijk provides firepower, while midfield balance from Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister offers control. Addressing set-piece defending and counter-attack vulnerabilities will be crucial to convert draws into wins.
At Anfield Index, we remain optimistic. The never-walk-alone spirit has carried Liverpool through tougher periods, and with potential January reinforcements, Slot’s side can push for a top-four finish—or even challenge for more. The 2025-26 campaign has delivered drama, tragedy, triumph, and lessons so far. The best may yet come.
YNWA.
