
The Premier League title race is as much about mind games as it is about performances on the pitch, with managers seeking every advantage. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta may have tried this when suggesting Liverpool would face a tough spell soon:
“They normally do,” he said. “So we have to be there. That’s for sure.”
However, Liverpool showed no signs of faltering on Saturday as they convincingly beat Ipswich 4-1 to maintain their six-point lead over Arsenal. Cody Gakpo netted twice, with Mohamed Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai adding to the tally. Liverpool extended their unbeaten Premier League run to 18 matches and still hold a game in hand over Arsenal.
Former Chelsea winger Pat Nevin summed it up: “It’s extraordinary what Liverpool are doing. They make it look easy.”
Are Liverpool Getting Stronger?

Liverpool’s title charge has exceeded expectations under new manager Arne Slot, who replaced Jurgen Klopp in the summer. Salah has been pivotal, now sitting on 19 Premier League goals—more than any other player at this stage.
What’s worrying for their rivals is how other players are stepping up. Gakpo, with five goals in six games, is easing the pressure on Salah. Szoboszlai, meanwhile, is increasing his threat level, managing four shots against Ipswich and showing greater confidence.
Slot remarked: “At the start of the season, Szoboszlai would have passed to Salah, but this time he went for goal himself. He is underestimated—his work-rate is unbelievable.”
Liverpool’s dominance is evident in their improved expected goal difference (xG) compared to last season. Although they’ve taken fewer shots, their xG shows they are creating better chances. Meanwhile, their defense, led by Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, and Ryan Gravenberch, has limited opponents to worse opportunities.
Ex-Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy added: “This trio is not just important for the Premier League but for the Champions League as well.”
‘They Just Keep Winning’ – Liverpool’s Resilience
Liverpool’s pragmatism under Slot has replaced Klopp’s high-octane style. The Ipswich game marked their first instance of scoring four or more league goals at Anfield this season.
Anfield remains a fortress, with Liverpool securing 26 points and eight wins—more than any other Premier League team at home. The Reds efficiently dismantled Ipswich, Szoboszlai opening the scoring early before three more goals ensured Ipswich’s late pressure only yielded a consolation.
“If you’re passive against Liverpool, you’re punished,” noted former Manchester City defender Nedum Onuoha. “Credit to Liverpool—they find ways to win games.”
Can Liverpool Be Caught?
Despite their commanding position, Liverpool’s six-point lead is not unassailable, particularly at this stage. Winning their game in hand will extend the gap to nine points, a significant psychological barrier for rivals.
Historical precedent exists for comebacks. In 1996, Manchester United overturned a 12-point deficit to Newcastle United after 23 matches, winning the title on the final day.
Yet, Slot remains focused: “We are mainly focused on ourselves. We had to win this game because it’s expected from Liverpool that we win this game. It’s so pleasing to see that we had a comfortable win.”