Liverpool's next six games after Real Madrid return

By James Cormack

Just when you thought Liverpool were back… they weren’t.

The last two weeks have epitomized the Reds’ powerful and frustrating 2022/23 season, which will culminate with no trophies and the possibility of entering an undesirable UEFA competition. Top four or elimination for Jurgen Klopp’s side after exiting the Champions League.

Liverpool they currently sit sixth in the Premier League table after Saturday’s defeat at Bournemouth, but the vulnerability of their rivals means the 2019/20 champions are favored by many to snatch fourth place despite their woeful inconsistency.

After exiting the competition this season After the 1-0 defeat at the Bernabeu and 5-2 in the first leg, a return to the Champions League is the club’s only objective. Here’s who they have on their schedule.

Manchester City – Liverpool – Premier League

This has so often been a decisive clash in the title race since Klopp’s Reds emerged as behemoths, and it will once again be the case when Liverpool visit the Etihad in early April.

However, Liverpool’s indifference means they are not a top player and will instead function as the team that could do Arsenal a favor when they take on Man City. The Gunners currently sit five points clear of the Citizens top of the table, and points for the Reds in Manchester will help further their title charge.

01/04/23 – Manchester City – Liverpool – Premier League (12:30)

Chelsea-Liverpool – Premier League

The reverse bout between these two sides was a sad state of affairs. However, with Liverpool improving and Chelsea perhaps finding their rhythm under Graham Potter, this fixture at Stamford Bridge should be watchable.

Chelsea are still a long way from being considered a genuine top-four but will quickly find themselves back in the race if their improved form continues after the international break.

04/04/23 – Chelsea vs Liverpool – Premier League (8.00pm)

Liverpool Arsenal – Premier League

They may be out, but Liverpool will have a say in the title race this season.

Just eight days after their visit to the Etihad, Klopp’s men welcome the Premier League leaders to Anfield. Mikel Arteta got just his second competitive victory over Klopp in the reverse fixture, and the Spaniard will be looking to oversee Arsenal’s first win at Liverpool since 2012.

While the Reds are far from their prime and Anfield hasn’t exactly been the cauldron of the past, victory for the Gunners in this fixture would be hugely significant.

04/09/23 – Liverpool – Arsenal – Premier League (16:30)

Leeds-Liverpool – Premier League

Leeds, threatened with relegation, stunned Liverpool at Anfield last October in what was one of the very few highlights of Jesse Marsch’s tenure.

Leeds are fighting for their lives at the foot of the table, with new boss Javi Gracia tasked with getting the Yorkshire club out of trouble following Marsch’s sacking.

Liverpool have not lost at Elland Road since 2000.

17/04/23 – Leeds – Liverpool – Premier League (20:00)

Liverpool-Nottingham Forest – Premier League

Liverpool’s next four meetings in the Premier League are tricky, but they should get some respite here. Even if you never know with the Reds 2022/23.

Nottingham Forest have been the poorest away team in the division this season. They earned just one win on their away trips and scored just four goals in the process.

The Reds will also be keen to avenge their defeat at the City Ground earlier in the season.

22/04/23 – Liverpool – Nottingham Forest – Premier League (3.00pm)

West Ham – Liverpool – Premier League

Having faced three of the Big Six on consecutive matchdays, Liverpool face three sides battling the prospect of relegation.

Not many would have predicted West Ham to be in their current dangerous position before the season starts, but the Hammers are in serious trouble. They’re just about to keep their heads afloat in the 17th, and have shown little to suggest they’re capable of walking away from danger.

David Moyes’ side also have the Europa Conference League to consider going forward.

26/04/23 – West Ham – Liverpool – Premier League (7.45pm)

01/04/23 – Manchester City – Liverpool – Premier League (12:30)
04/04/23 – Chelsea vs Liverpool – Premier League (8.00pm)
04/09/23 – Liverpool – Arsenal – Premier League (16:30)
17/04/23 – Leeds – Liverpool – Premier League (20:00)
22/04/23 – Liverpool – Nottingham Forest – Premier League (3.00pm)
26/04/23 – West Ham – Liverpool – Premier League (7.45pm)

This article was originally posted on 90min.com as Liverpool’s next six games after Real Madrid return.