Liverpool will play at least 10 matches from now until the end of the season. This is a decisive series of matches to determine whether this campaign will be memorable or forgettable for coach Arne Slot's team.
The arduous period spanning three different arenas - possibly up to 15 matches if they go deep in the FA Cup and Champions League - will also directly affect Slot's future at Anfield.
However, contrary to some information from the German press, the current internal situation shows that Slot's position is still guaranteed. However, not winning a Champions League ticket will certainly test the patience of the owners of Fenway Sports Group.
Despite encountering some problems in the round of 16, English football is still on track to win another Champions League spot, thereby opening up greater opportunities for Liverpool (ranked 5th) to complete the minimum goal.
However, the gap is very slim. Chelsea is ranked 6th, only 1 point behind, while many teams behind are still fiercely chasing when the season has 7 rounds left. Even Sunderland in 11th place is only 6 points behind Liverpool.
According to Opta's assessment, Liverpool's chances of winning a Champions League spot are currently only 22.82%. Therefore, the last 7 matches in the Premier League will be Slot's top priority in the context that the squad, despite being invested with 446 million pounds, still reveals many limitations.
The situation became even more difficult when the impromptu injuries of key players such as Alisson Becker and Mohamed Salah appeared before the international break, along with Jeremie Frimpong when on national team duty.
However, Liverpool may receive a major boost as the English football record signing - Alexander Isak - is about to return after a 4-month absence.
Salah's confirmation that he will leave the team at the end of the season makes the situation even more complicated. Slot is almost forced to continue using this striker in every remaining match, regardless of form.
The schedule ahead is not easy either. At home, Liverpool will face Fulham, Crystal Palace, Chelsea and Brentford respectively. Meanwhile, away trips against Everton, Manchester United and Aston Villa all pose many risks.
Going deep in cup tournaments can help reduce pressure for Slot, who has suffered negative reactions from spectators after the recent draw against Tottenham.
Notably, if the "Reds" win the Champions League, they will still win tickets to the next season regardless of their ranking in the Premier League.
Nearly a quarter of a century ago, Gerard Houllier once said Liverpool only had "10 matches left to reach the top". But the team at that time could not complete the goal and went empty-handed.
Now, Slot and his students are also facing a similar turning point - where every mistake pays a heavy price.
