After a stellar 2024/25 campaign that saw them deservedly crowned Premier League champions, Liverpool are already laying the groundwork for a strong title defence next season.
The Reds last managed to retain a league title during their golden run from 1982 to 1984, when they claimed three top-flight trophies in succession, and now the Merseyside club has the chance to end the wait for back-to-back Premier League successes next term.
New Era Under Slot Begins in Style
Arne Slot’s debut season at Anfield couldn’t have gone much better. Liverpool finished 10 points clear of nearest rivals Arsenal, silencing any doubters who questioned how the club would fare without long-serving manager Jürgen Klopp.
The Reds, who are priced at 15/8 in the Premier League odds to retain their title next season, wasted no time adjusting to Slot’s methods. The Dutchman was able to bring new levels out of this side, who are 11/2 favourites with football bets to win the UEFA Champions League next term. Slot isn’t one to rest and his laurels and, despite the dominant league performance, he’ll be the first to insist that there’s work to be done if Liverpool are to remain one step ahead of their competitors.
One significant boost heading into the summer was the news that skipper Virgil van Dijk and forward Mohamed Salah both penned new contracts. Van Dijk has been such an influential figure since making the move to Anfield in 2018 and there was plenty of relief when it was confirmed he would follow Salah’s lead in signing fresh terms. Amid ongoing transfer speculation, keeping two of their most influential players helps ensure not only on-field stability but also reinforces Liverpool’s appeal to new signings.
Gunners and City Hot on Their Tails
In recent seasons, Arsenal and Manchester City have been the main protagonists in the Premier League title race, but both sides were left playing catch-up as Liverpool surged clear at the top. Yet another runner-up finish has sparked fresh scrutiny around Mikel Arteta’s tenure in north London. While the Gunners made headlines with their efforts in Europe on their way to the Champions League semi-finals, they were unable to avoid the banana skins in the Premier League. Looking to bolster their attacking options over the summer, expect Arsenal to try and narrow the gap on Liverpool next term.
Meanwhile, in Manchester, City endured an uncharacteristic dip in form, notably feeling the absence of Ballon d’Or winner Rodri, who missed a chunk of the season due to injury. The return of the Spanish midfielder will almost feel like a new signing for Pep Guardiola’s side, who have the ability to respond next season.
It’s been over 40 years since a Liverpool side last retained the league title, and the spotlight will be firmly on Slot and his squad as they attempt to make history in the 2025/26 campaign. With momentum, talent and the experience of their last season, the Merseyside giants are determined not to let this opportunity for back-to-back titles slip away.
Article written by Ben Spencer
