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Liverpool’s Title March Can’t Mask the Work Still to Be Done

As the 2024/25 Premier League season enters its final stretch, Liverpool finds themselves 11 points clear at the summit with seven games remaining. The 20th league title—the long-awaited one that would finally equal Manchester United’s record—is well within reach. For most clubs, this would be a moment of celebration. For Liverpool, however, there’s an unexpected tension in the air.

The Reds have stumbled out of three cup competitions in quick succession. A painful EFL Cup final defeat to Newcastle United followed exits from both the FA Cup and the Champions League. And while those losses came against quality opposition, the reaction among parts of the fanbase has been surprisingly swift and harsh. Fingers have been pointed—at Arne Slot for rotation and tactical tweaks, at the ownership group FSG for perceived passivity in the transfer market, and at players for running out of steam at a critical point.

The latest blow, a 3-2 defeat away to Fulham, was a performance that highlighted the physical and mental fatigue coursing through the squad. Though the loss was only Liverpool’s second in the league, it reignited debate around squad depth and consistency. But context is important. Despite that result, Liverpool remains firmly in control of the title race. Arsenal, 11 points adrift, are unlikely to make up ground—especially as they rotate this weekend ahead of a Champions League quarter-final second leg against Real Madrid, having already won the first leg 3-0.

Fatigue, Frustration and a Chance to Reset

Back in Merseyside, there’s no room for complacency. West Ham visit Anfield this weekend, and while the fixture offers a chance to bounce back, it also presents another test of mentality. Arne Slot will need to carefully manage tired legs, knowing the finishing line is near—but not yet crossed.

The reality is that this team is overachieving in a season of transition. Arne Slot arrived with the challenge of succeeding Jurgen Klopp—no small feat. Integrating a new footballing philosophy while battling on four fronts was always going to produce friction. What has been achieved—particularly in the league—deserves recognition, even amid the recent disappointment.

Cup Losses Could Spark Transfer Market Urgency

The struggles of the past few weeks may prove beneficial in the long term, as there was a danger that a dominant league campaign might encourage the club’s hierarchy to stand still. The cracks that have been exposed during this intense run-in will serve as a timely reminder: this squad still needs regeneration. Sporting CEO Michael Edwards, Director of Football Richard Hughes, and Arne Slot are all well aware of that. Plans are already in motion for a summer of transformation.

Liverpool will need five or six high-level signings—players who can inject depth, athleticism, and reliability into a squad that has leaned heavily on a core group. Injuries, form dips, and fatigue have exposed the limits of the current setup. A league title should not cloud the need for renewal—it should sharpen it.

A Title as a Launchpad, Not a Conclusion

In truth, a few bumps on the way to glory may be the best outcome. They keep the standards high and prevent dangerous complacency. And should Liverpool lift their 20th title in May, it will serve as a platform—not a conclusion.

The next phase under Arne Slot must be about building a squad that doesn’t just win the league—but is built to win everything. Again and again.

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