Cast your mind back to May 2022, Liverpool were gunning for an unprecedented quadruple as Jurgen Klopp’s ‘Mentality Monsters’ looked unstoppable.
However, the dream of winning all four trophies ended in a bitter nightmare which has continued for the duration of the 22/23 season.
Without a shadow of a doubt, this has been Klopp’s worst season in charge of the Anfield club. At this stage, Liverpool’s trophy hopes are all over and a place in the 23/24 Champions League campaign remains uncertain.
As domestic football is about to make its return, the next 10 days could have a huge impact on Liverpool’s future.
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Starting this weekend, Klopp and the Reds will travel to Manchester City on Saturday before facing Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday.
Next Sunday, they end their mammoth week with an Anfield clash against league leaders Arsenal. This is make or break for Klopp and his players.
Win all three matches and the gloomy skies above Anfield will lift but if they get anything less than at least five points, it could be a disaster as they risk being left behind in the race for top four.
The failure to secure Champions League football will have a huge impact on the quality of players they can attract.
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Here are some players they are likely to target depending on where they finish in the Premier League.
With Champions League -
Jude Bellingham
Borussia Dortmund's 19-year-old sensation has long been top of Liverpool’s list. If the price is already proving to be a stumbling block, having to convince Bellingham to join without Champions League could turn out to be mission impossible.
Frenkie de Jong
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Manchester United’s loss could be Liverpool’s gain, with Barcelona needing to raise funds, De Jong could be sold. The Dutchman's calmness on the ball could be vital for the Reds.
Josko Gvardiol
RB Leipzig’s young defender Gvardiol is one of the highest-rated defenders in the world. Although the defence is not the most pressing issue, the Croatian could become Virgil van Dijk's long term replacement.
Pablo Gavi
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It has been reported that Gavi could leave Barcelona for free in the summer as his contract problems continue. Many big clubs will be lining up for the Spaniard’s signature, including Liverpool.
Without Champions League -
Sander Berge
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The Sheffield United man has previously been linked with a move to Liverpool and will not cost a huge amount of money.
Matheus Nunes
Nunes is a brilliant ball carrier that Liverpool could do with in their midfield. Wolves are reportedly looking to amass a transfer fee of around £50 million for the Portuguese.
Mason Mount
Mount is yet to agree a new deal and could be offloaded in the summer. With Chelsea unlikely to secure Champions League football, a move to Liverpool could be on the cards.
Manu Kone
Borussia Monchengladbach’s 21-year-old midfield talent could be a player that Klopp can turn into a superstar. Fast, strong and mobile, he has all the qualities to do well in the German’s system.
Can Liverpool finish in the top four? Only time will tell.
Featured Image Credit: Alamy/FootyRendersTopics: Liverpool, Liverpool Transfer News & Rumours, Jurgen Klopp, Champions League, Jude Bellingham, Mason Mount, Frenkie De Jong