Liverpool’s grip on the Premier League title has become even stronger after a crucial win over Newcastle, coupled with Arsenal’s disappointing draw at Nottingham Forest.
The Reds’ 2-0 victory, thanks to goals from Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister, leaves them 13 points ahead of their closest competitors.
Meanwhile, Arsenal dropped more valuable points in a goalless stalemate, further hampering their hopes of securing the title.
Arne Slot Keeps His Focus on Upcoming Challenges, Not the Title
Despite being in a commanding position, Liverpool’s manager Arne Slot is refusing to get ahead of himself.
When asked about how close his team is to clinching the title, Slot made it clear that his mind is already on their next big challenge—the upcoming Champions League clash with Paris Saint-Germain.
“I don’t think that way,” Slot said when questioned about the title race.
“I’m thinking about PSG already. I watched their match against Manchester City, and I was impressed with the quality they have.
They’re on a similar run to ours.”
He added that he won’t focus on the Premier League again until after Liverpool’s next match against Southampton on March 8.
Mikel Arteta Faces the Harsh Reality of Arsenal’s Title Struggles
On the other hand, Arsenal’s manager Mikel Arteta is dealing with the harsh reality of his team’s fading title challenge.
The Spaniard was visibly frustrated after another disappointing result, even though he acknowledged that Arsenal had shown improvement since their home defeat to West Ham.
“We showed energy and willingness to make things happen,” Arteta said.
“But we lacked the quality in the final pass and delivery to win it. Dropping two points again is painful.”
Arteta also hinted that the focus for Arsenal might now shift to their Champions League campaign, as they prepare for a crucial match against PSV Eindhoven.
Liverpool’s Brief Respite Before the Final Push
Liverpool, who have played five matches in just 15 days, will enjoy a well-earned two-day break before resuming their league and European campaigns.
With their lead at the top of the table growing, Slot’s side is well-positioned to push for both the Premier League title and success in the Champions League.
The Reds are also preparing for their upcoming Carabao Cup final against Newcastle, their most recent opponents.
Slot, who was serving the first match of a two-game suspension for his behavior during the Merseyside Derby, watched the Newcastle game from the stands.
Slot Reflects on His Suspension and the Game’s Ups and Downs
Though his vantage point in the stands gave him a better overall perspective on the game, Slot admitted that watching from a distance had its drawbacks.
“Watching in real time is less emotional because you don’t feel the emotions of the players,” Slot explained.
“But the downside is you see replays, and after five minutes, I could see the penalty call that was turned down!”
Despite his personal frustrations, Slot praised the team’s overall performance, highlighting how well they managed the match.