Liverpool sealed their 20th top-flight league title after an impressive 5-1 win against Tottenham on Sunday.
The victory not only brought them to the top of the Premier League but also saw them draw level with their arch rivals, Manchester United, with 20 league titles each.
This historic win is a testament to the Reds’ strength and consistency throughout the season, making them one of the early champions in Premier League history.
The Turning Point: Scholes’ Moment of Realization
Paul Scholes, the former Manchester United midfielder, has pinpointed a key moment when he realized Liverpool were serious contenders for the Premier League crown.
Despite the intense competition, Scholes admitted that it was Liverpool’s commanding 3-0 victory over his former team at Old Trafford in September that truly caught his attention.
Scholes explained that the performance he witnessed that day made him believe that Liverpool had the potential to challenge for the title.
He remarked, “I actually thought Liverpool would have a chance of winning the league when I saw them playing at Old Trafford back in September.”
Key Players and Squad Depth
Scholes was particularly impressed by Liverpool’s attacking strength and the overall depth of the team.
He noted that the team had “goals all over the pitch,” which, combined with the solid defensive partnership of Virgil Van Dijk and goalkeeper Alisson, made them a force to be reckoned with.
Even though Alisson had missed a few games this season, Scholes highlighted that Liverpool still managed to maintain their top form, and with both key players fit, they had a real shot at the title.
No Push Needed: Scholes Reflects on the Rivalry
As the season progressed, Liverpool maintained their position at the top, never relinquishing control of the league.
Arsenal, currently second, trail Liverpool by a massive 15 points, and Manchester City, the defending champions, have been nowhere near their usual dominant selves.
Scholes acknowledged that the competition might not have been as fierce this year, with Manchester City and Arsenal both facing challenges.
However, he also believed that even if their rivals had been at their best, Liverpool would have still emerged victorious.
“I still think they would’ve won the title and gone into another gear,” Scholes continued.
“In the end, it was quite easy, but it’s still an unbelievable achievement.”
Liverpool’s Historic Victory and Future Prospects
With this title, Liverpool has now matched Manchester United’s 20 top-flight titles.
The Red Devils’ dominance in the Premier League era had been undisputed for many years, but this season marks a significant shift.
Scholes, who spent 19 years and 718 appearances at United, admitted that Liverpool is now in a stronger position to win another title before his old club does.
“When I retired, Liverpool were only two league titles behind us, so you knew there was always a possibility of it happening,” Scholes said.
“The way things are now, you’d put money on Liverpool winning it again before United do.”
This latest triumph brings Liverpool level with Manchester United on 68 major honours.
However, if Community Shield titles are excluded from the count, Liverpool edges ahead with 52 major trophies compared to United’s 47.
Liverpool’s Road Ahead: A Dominant Force in English Football
As Liverpool prepares to lift their 20th Premier League trophy at their final home game against Crystal Palace on May 25, their status as one of the best teams in the league is undeniable.
Their triumph this season solidifies their place as a dominant force in English football, and with the potential to add more titles to their collection, the Reds are positioned for even greater success in the future.