From Premier League champion to survival mode, Liverpool's season is on the brink

Twelve months after Liverpool chased a record-equalling 20th English league crown, the mood at Anfield has darkened. A 4-0 FA Cup humbling by Manchester City and Wednesday’s 2-0 Champions League quarter-final first-leg loss at Paris Saint-Germain have left Arne Slot fighting to rescue both the campaign and, potentially, his tenure.

The Dutchman guided the club to the Premier League title in his debut season, yet an early collapse in this year’s championship race has invited scrutiny. Liverpool now cling to fifth place, one point above Chelsea, and must rely on England’s prospective fifth European berth—awarded on coefficient standings—to have any chance of returning to the Champions League next term. Slot has labelled that objective “non-negotiable” and, after the defeat in Paris, admitted his squad is operating in “survival mode”.

Complicating matters is the availability of Xabi Alonso. The former Reds midfielder, sacked by Real Madrid this season after steering Bayer Leverkusen to the Bundesliga title, remains a fan favourite and was previously considered the natural successor when Jürgen Klopp departed in 2024. Although Liverpool’s hierarchy has offered no public indication that Slot’s job is under immediate threat, the mere presence of a high-profile, out-of-work alternative fuels speculation.

On-field issues mirror the uncertainty. Mohamed Salah, who recently announced his post-season exit, has struggled for form and was an unused substitute against PSG following a public spat with Slot. His possible farewell appearance at Anfield arrives on Saturday against Fulham, a fixture Liverpool enter on a three-match skid across all competitions.

While Slot demands near-perfection to secure continental qualification, rivals are pulling away. Arsenal can open a 12-point lead at the summit with victory over Bournemouth, and Manchester City, fresh from dumping Liverpool out of the cup, visit Chelsea on Sunday.

Off the pitch, supporters plan to voice dissent over rising ticket prices. The Spirit of Shankly has urged fans attending the Fulham match to refrain from in-stadium spending, aiming to pressure American owner Fenway Sports Group. “This is a small act, but if enough people do it, it sends a clear message,” the group insists.

With time slipping away and multiple battles on several fronts, Liverpool’s season has reached a critical juncture. What began as a quest for history now hinges on salvaging pride, points, and perhaps a manager’s future.