Liverpool have seven games between October 20 and November 10, 2019. These seven games could pretty much determine how the Premier League shapes up as the Reds try to extend their lead over City and stabilize their season.
The seven games include the trip to Old Trafford this weekend, a must win game against Genk away in the Champions League, before hosting Tottenham Hotspur at home. The FA Cup game R16 against Arsenal, that has always earned Klopp backlash for throwing the smaller tournaments, comes next then a trip to Aston Villa, the return fixture against Genk, which culminates in the battle of the titans as Manchester City visits.
The season defining ran of games would stretch the faltering Liverpool defence this term. Their backline is the latest vulnerability, as many observe including Celtic legend Charlie Nicholas. The synergy upfront was one, but the leaky defence is the current challenge. For now, Liverpool have a perfect record after eight games but the next set of games would really test them. Nicholas insists City will close the gap as the Reds are not as efficient as last term.
Jurgen Klopp would have to manage his squad stars, resting players and rotating to get the best use of them – and this has not been Klopp’s strong suit.
Pep Guardiola would need to stretch his injury ravaged side some more, with Sergio Aguero possibly missing games. The coach admitted that some players are playing with pain to ensure they fulfil their season objectives. Gabriel Jesus is in great shape to lead the line, and the other forwards can cause harm at any time.
If Klopp manages this schedule very well, impressing with victories, with the height being a win against City, this could be it for Liverpool as it would be an almost perfect start!