"In reality, I believe there are only two teams", Slot stated on 2/1 during a press conference ahead of their Premier League round 20 match against Fulham. He was referring to Arsenal and Man City when asked about the title race. "Aston Villa is quite close, but Arsenal created a gap with their win in round 19. The two leading teams are very far from us, and Liverpool should not be looking at them right now."

Coach Arne Slot during Liverpool's 0-0 draw with Leeds in Premier League round 19 at Anfield, Liverpool, England on 1/1/2025. *Photo: Shutterstock*

Despite an 8-match unbeaten run and returning to a champions league qualification spot after overcoming their worst period in 71 years of club history, Liverpool still does not feel convincing. Mid-week, they drew 0-0 with Leeds at Anfield and are 12 points behind league leaders Arsenal.

"We have faced difficulties throughout the season", Slot admitted. "The start was good in terms of results, but the matches were very tight. This was followed by a period of playing well but consistently lacking luck. Now, we are 8 matches unbeaten, which sounds like the team is thriving, but that is not the case. Every match is intense and difficult. We often play better than our opponents, but it is not enough to make a difference."

The Dutch coach hopes Liverpool will have a breakthrough moment, but conceded the first 19 rounds were a series of struggles, sometimes with luck, sometimes without. "Up to this point, Liverpool's season is a continuous battle", he expressed.

The draw with Leeds was also Liverpool's first goalless draw in 84 matches under Slot. He believes the defense has clearly improved during the unbeaten run—starting when Mohamed Salah was left out of the squad for the West Ham match—but the team still lacks balance in attack.

"Clearly, we hardly allow opponents to create chances", Slot analyzed. "But it is equally clear that we struggle to create enough opportunities compared to our possession. This is not new this season. The players still try, moving the ball wide, penetrating centrally, making off-ball runs, doing everything necessary. However, sometimes you need a magic moment or a set piece to make a difference. When that happens, everything will look better, but so far, this is not our season."

By Hong Duy (according to The Guardian)