Liverpool is currently in a strong position to win the Premier League, holding a seven-point lead at the top. However, Wednesday’s Merseyside derby ended in chaos, reminding everyone that with 14 rounds still to play, things could change.
Everton’s last-minute equalizer, which made the score 2-2, denied Liverpool the chance to extend its lead to nine points over second-place Arsenal. The intense emotions after the match, especially the on-field altercation, were a result of Liverpool’s frustration at losing the win so late. Even coach Arne Slot was sent off after using abusive language.
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk expressed disappointment at the late goal, saying, “To concede an equalizer that late is always disappointing…it was disappointing for us.” Despite the frustration, Liverpool still managed to keep its lead at the top.
With Arsenal struggling with injuries in attack and Manchester City’s title defense faltering, Liverpool remains the favorite to win the title for the 20th time.
Liverpool’s recent draw with Everton used up its game in hand, but they still have a significant advantage. At this time last year, Liverpool was only two points ahead but ended up finishing nine points behind Manchester City, who went on to win the title. Arsenal, who had a two-point lead last year, lost to City by five points in the end.
Liverpool players speak to Micael Oliver in the gameLiverpool’s next match is at home against Wolverhampton on Sunday, followed by tough away games against Aston Villa and Manchester City before they host Newcastle.
Arsenal’s chances of catching up with Liverpool took a hit this week when Kai Havertz suffered an injury during training in Dubai. The full extent of his injury hasn’t been confirmed, but reports suggest it could keep him out for the rest of the season. This adds to Arsenal’s injury crisis, with Gabriel Jesus already out for the season and Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli also sidelined. Arsenal will face relegation-threatened Leicester on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Manchester City has distractions of its own. Before their Champions League second-leg match against Real Madrid, City faces a crucial game against Newcastle. City is in fifth place, just ahead of Newcastle on goal difference.
Their lineup could be affected by their upcoming Champions League match, where they lost 3-2 in the first leg. If they don’t manage to overturn that result, they will be out of the Champions League before the round of 16 for the first time since 2012. With domestic struggles, Pep Guardiola can’t afford to rest key players ahead of the crucial European match.
