ไทย
English
中國人
As a turbulent season draws to a close, Liverpool can at least take comfort in the likelihood of securing a Champions League spot.
Liverpool's participation in Europe's top club competition next season was under serious threat at several points during the campaign, but their place now appears virtually assured thanks to a recent run of positive results and the added security of fifth place being sufficient for qualification.
That said, with a challenging run of fixtures remaining, Liverpool cannot afford any missteps. A tricky end to the Premier League season kicks off with a visit to fierce rivals Manchester United on Sunday, one of just three clubs currently sitting above them in the table.
In theory, Liverpool could seal Champions League qualification at Old Trafford, though they will also need results to go their way elsewhere.
How Liverpool Can Qualify for Champions League This Weekend
Liverpool head into the weekend from a position of strength. Sitting fourth in the standings and eight points ahead of sixth-placed Brighton & Hove Albion, even a loss to Man Utd would not spell disaster in their pursuit of Champions League football.
However, to get the job done this weekend, a win at Old Trafford is essential. Beyond claiming all three points in Manchester, they also need Brighton to slip up away at Newcastle United on Saturday afternoon, along with Bournemouth failing to win their home fixture against Crystal Palace on Sunday.
The encouraging news is that Liverpool will know whether a top-five finish can be confirmed before kick-off at Old Trafford, though they will be desperate for the win regardless given the intensity of their rivalry with the Red Devils. A victory would also propel them above United and into third place.
Liverpool's Remaining Fixtures After Man Utd Clash
Should Liverpool fall short this weekend, they still have three further opportunities to lock up their Champions League berth. As it stands ahead of the weekend's fixtures, the Reds know they need no more than five points to guarantee a top-five finish.
Accumulating those points won't come easily, however. Following the trip to Old Trafford, Liverpool face another member of the traditional 'Big Six', hosting Chelsea at Anfield on May 10. Despite the Blues operating without a permanent manager, they possess enough quality to trouble Arne Slot's side — as demonstrated in the earlier meeting, which Liverpool lost 2–1.
Liverpool then take on fellow top-five contenders Aston Villa. The visit to the Midlands promises to be a stern test for the Reds, who have gone without a win in each of their last two outings at Villa Park.
Liverpool round off their season at home against Brentford, a side who could have plenty riding on the result as they chase European football of their own. The Bees remain in contention for either Europa League or Conference League qualification next season.
With several demanding fixtures ahead, Liverpool will be eager to wrap up their Champions League place as soon as possible.