Liverpool’s next match won’t be until the end of March due to the forthcoming international break. However, upon their return to Merseyside, Jurgen Klopp and his squad will face a series of challenging fixtures.
The Reds suffered a setback in the FA Cup quarter-finals on Sunday, succumbing to a disappointing 4-3 defeat against arch-rivals Manchester United. They will not take to the field again until the last day of the month.
Although their exit from the FA Cup was disheartening, it may serve as a hidden advantage as Liverpool contend for both the Premier League title and the Europa League trophy this season.
Having already claimed the Carabao Cup, Klopp’s side are eager to add more silverware to their collection before the summer arrives. Ahead lies a crucial period, and here are Liverpool’s next five fixtures across all competitions.
Liverpool vs Brighton – Premier League
Liverpool will host Roberto De Zerbi’s Brighton team at Anfield on March 31, following the international break. Despite inconsistent performances this season and a recent elimination from the Europa League by Roma, Brighton remains in contention for European qualification.
De Zerbi, reportedly on Liverpool’s managerial radar, ranks below Xabi Alonso and Ruben Amorim as a potential successor to Klopp. Although Brighton has experienced ups and downs under his leadership, they remain a formidable opponent capable of defeating any team.
Liverpool’s recent encounters with Brighton have been challenging, with the Reds failing to secure a victory in their last four matches. In their earlier meeting this season at the Amex Stadium, the match ended in a 2-2 draw, with goals from Simon Adingra and Lewis Dunk negating a brace from Mohamed Salah.
Liverpool vs Brighton – Sunday, 31 March (14:00 GMT)
Liverpool vs Sheffield United Premier League
Liverpool are set to take the field again the following Thursday, hosting Sheffield United at Anfield for an evening match.
This upcoming encounter presents an opportunity for the Reds to potentially enhance their goal difference, given Sheffield United’s dismal performance this season, particularly in defense.
Sitting at the bottom of the table, the Blades trail the Reds by a staggering 50 points, although the unpredictable nature of the Premier League means surprises are always possible.
In the previous meeting at Bramall Lane, Klopp’s team emerged victorious with relative ease, securing a 2-0 win thanks to goals from Virgil van Dijk and Dominik Szoboszlai in early December.
Liverpool vs Sheffield United – Thursday, 4 April (19:30 GMT)
Manchester United vs Liverpool – Premier League
Liverpool are gearing up for a showdown at Old Trafford in the Premier League early next month, hoping for revenge for their FA Cup quarter-final exit.
Despite Erik ten Hag’s squad often playing second fiddle, Liverpool have failed to clinch victory in their two encounters with Manchester United this season.
For the upcoming match, Klopp’s team must sharpen their finishing skills, especially with key players like Trent Alexander-Arnold, Ibrahima Konate, Diogo Jota, and Curtis Jones expected to return to the lineup.
While Liverpool have demonstrated their ability to overcome Manchester United this season, their past matches have highlighted their inefficiency in front of goal.
With implications for the title race, securing victory is imperative for Liverpool in what promises to be a pivotal fixture.
Manchester United vs Liverpool – Sunday, 7 April (15:30 GMT)
Liverpool vs Atalanta – Europa League
Liverpool have the opportunity to gain a significant advantage in the Europa League semi-final race as they prepare to host Atalanta at Anfield next month.
Gian Piero Gasperini’s team currently hold the sixth position in Serie A standings and remain in contention for a top-four finish. Atalanta recently eliminated Sporting CP, led by manager Ruben Amorim, in the last 16 round.
Known for their thrilling style of play, Atalanta boast a squad of exceptionally talented players, including Teun Koopmeiners, who has been linked with a move to Liverpool. Notably, Gasperini’s side previously defeated Liverpool 2-0 during their sole visit to Merseyside.
In contrast, Liverpool secured a convincing 5-0 victory over Atalanta in the 2020/21 Champions League group stage, propelled by a hat-trick from Diogo Jota.
Throughout the current European campaign, Liverpool have seldom been pushed beyond their comfort zone. However, facing Atalanta are likely to require a higher gear from the English side.
Liverpool vs Atalanta – Thursday, 11 April (20:00)
Liverpool vs Crystal Palace – Premier League
The next five games for Liverpool will be played at home, with Crystal Palace set to visit Anfield in mid-April.
In the previous encounter at Selhurst Park, Harvey Elliott scored the decisive goal for Liverpool, securing a 2-1 win with a powerful strike in the 90th minute.
Crystal Palace are now under the management of Oliver Glasner, who previously led Eintracht Frankfurt to victory in the Europa League in 2022, replacing former Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson.
Klopp will face a new challenge from Glasner, who has already made a positive impact in London. Liverpool hold a strong record against Crystal Palace, having won 12 of their last 14 meetings and remaining undefeated in this fixture since 2017.
Liverpool vs Crystal Palace – Sunday, 14 April (14:00) GMT
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