Liverpool`s substantial lead at the top of the Premier League table means the Reds are steadily approaching their first league title since the 2019-20 season. The day they can officially lift the trophy appears to be very close.
As the situation currently stands, Liverpool holds a 12-point advantage over second-placed Arsenal with five games remaining for Liverpool (Arsenal have played one more match). This strong position makes it highly probable they will end the season as English champions. They have the opportunity to officially secure the title as early as this weekend, indicating that the title race remains firmly within Liverpool`s control. They can claim the title outright when they play again on Sunday.
This impressive lead comes five years after their last Premier League victory, which was the only time they won the accolade during Jürgen Klopp`s notable eight-year tenure as manager. As they began their first season under Arne Slot, Klopp`s successor, who previously coached only in the Netherlands, they were not initially viewed as title favorites. However, the team started exceptionally strongly, quickly establishing themselves as the clear favorites months ago.
With the final weeks of the season unfolding, here are the potential scenarios for Liverpool to clinch the Premier League title:
Premier League Standings (Top Two)
| TEAM | MP | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liverpool | 33 | 24 | 7 | 2 | 75 | 31 | +44 | 79 |
| Arsenal | 34 | 18 | 13 | 3 | 63 | 29 | +34 | 67 |
Liverpool`s Remaining Schedule
All times Eastern U.S.
- April 27: Liverpool vs. Tottenham Hotspur
- May 4: Chelsea vs. Liverpool
- May 11: Liverpool vs. Arsenal
- May 19: Brighton and Hove Albion vs. Liverpool
- May 25: Liverpool vs. Crystal Palace
Earliest Title Clinching Scenario (This Sunday)
Liverpool can secure the title this Sunday with a win or a draw against Tottenham Hotspur. A draw would increase their lead over Arsenal to 13 points. With only four games remaining for Arsenal after this weekend (as they`ve played one more), they would be mathematically unable to overcome Liverpool`s points total.
Next Title Clinching Scenario (If Not Sunday)
Should Liverpool fail to clinch against Tottenham on Sunday, there is still little cause for concern. A draw against Chelsea on May 4th would likely be sufficient to secure the title, regardless of Arsenal`s result against Bournemouth that weekend. If Arsenal win their match and Liverpool draw theirs, Liverpool would still hold a 10-point advantage with only three games left, which is not enough time for Arsenal to catch the league leaders.
Potential Guard of Honor
While not mandatory, it is traditional for the first opposing team faced by the newly crowned Premier League champions to form a guard of honor. There exists a scenario where Arsenal – who have been Liverpool`s rivals for the title this season – might be the team to perform this gesture at Anfield. However, this would only happen if Liverpool`s title clinch is slightly delayed beyond this weekend or the next fixture.
Adrian Whitmore