Liverpool next 5 games compared to Chelsea and Man Utd as Reds miss chance
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Liverpool's Next 5 Games Compared to Chelsea and Man Utd as Reds Miss Chance
Liverpool FC, the defending Premier League champions under Arne Slot, face a pivotal run of fixtures in early 2026 that could define their title defense. Recent results have been tough: a 2-1 loss to Chelsea on October 19 and a 1-2 defeat to Manchester United at Anfield on October 18 have seen the Reds drop points, missing a golden opportunity to pull away at the top[1][3]. As of January 5, 2026, Liverpool sit 4th in the table, with Arsenal looming large in their next clash[2].
Liverpool's Next 5 Premier League Fixtures
| Date | Opponent | Venue | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 8 | Arsenal (Away) | Away | 3:00 PM / 8:00 PM |
| Jan 17 | Burnley (Home) | Home | 10:00 AM / 3:00 PM |
| Jan 24 | Bournemouth (Away) | Away | 12:30 PM / 5:30 PM |
| Jan 31 | Newcastle (Home) | Home | 8:00 PM |
| Feb 7/8 | Man City (Home) | Home | 11:30 AM / 4:30 PM |
Interspersed are FA Cup vs Barnsley (Jan 12) and Champions League ties against Marseille (Jan 21, away) and Qarabag (Jan 28, home), testing squad depth[2][3].
Comparison: Chelsea & Man Utd Fixtures
The article highlights how Liverpool's slate stacks up tougher against rivals. Chelsea enjoy winnable homes amid a lighter run, while Man Utd, reeling from their own poor form, face mid-table sides but with Europa fatigue. Liverpool's Arsenal opener and City showdown ramp up pressure—win them, and the title race reignites; stumble, and challengers pounce[1][4].
Slot's men must rebound fast, with Mohamed Salah's Golden Boot lead a bright spot amid Haaland's chase[4]. Fans fret over the "missed chance" after October slips, but Anfield fortress could yet deliver[1][3].
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