Sport

Liverpool's Christmas Conundrum: Will This Be the Year They Break the Curse?

2024-12-23

Author: John Tan

Liverpool FC is set to celebrate Christmas Day perched at the summit of the Premier League following an electrifying 6-3 victory against Tottenham over the weekend. With just a solitary loss to their name this season, under the guidance of manager Arne Slot, the Reds have emerged as the standout team in England, and, quite possibly, the whole of Europe. They are also leading the newly restructured UEFA Champions League standings, adding to the excitement surrounding Anfield.

As the club looks ahead to 2025, they have positioned themselves favorably to contend for four prestigious trophies this season. Legendary goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel has boldly asserted that if Liverpool continues in their current form, they could achieve the elusive quadruple—an incredible feat that would secure their place in football history.

However, fans are left wondering: how many times have the Reds successfully clinched the Premier League title after sitting at the top on Christmas Day?

Despite this being Liverpool’s seventh occasion in which they go into Christmas as league leaders, the stat isn't as rosy as the club's supporters would like. In fact, the Merseyside giants have managed to win the Premier League title only once in such situations, achieving that remarkable feat during the 2019/20 season when Jurgen Klopp led them atop the standings on December 25 and then went on to claim their first league title in 30 years in a breathtaking fashion.

The past two years have seen Arsenal enter Christmas in the lead, yet they fell short of capturing the title on both occasions, a trend that heightens the pressure on Liverpool to break this so-called "Christmas curse" in 2025, especially with Chelsea sniffing closely behind, trailing by just four points.

Looking ahead, the January transfer window looms large, presenting a golden opportunity for Liverpool to bolster their squad as they aspire for the title. Sources indicate that the club is keen on making strategic signings to strengthen the team. Rumors suggest the recruitment focuses on four key positions, with center-back and central midfield being the most urgent priorities. Manager Slot is acutely aware of the necessity for quality depth, as injuries and form inconsistencies can disrupt their title chase.

If Liverpool can successfully enhance their squad with one or two impactful signings in the upcoming transfer window, they could vastly improve their chances of winning the Premier League title—an achievement that would undoubtedly elevate Slot to legendary status in his very first season at the helm.

As the festivities approach, football fans worldwide will be eagerly watching to see if Liverpool can finally conquer their Christmas challenges and emerge victorious come May. Will this be the year they turn their fortunes around? Only time will tell!