The Four Key Matches That Define Liverpool’s January Priorities – Opinion | OneFootball

January’s Fixture List: Why These Four Matches Really Matter

January 2025 offers a congested football calendar for Liverpool, with eight fixtures spread across three competitions. Yet, amidst the chaos, it’s evident that only four matches truly demand the club’s full attention. With the Premier League title race heating up, priorities must be set, and strategic player rotation is essential to navigate this challenging month successfully.

Prioritising the Premier League

Liverpool’s January league fixtures feature some tricky opponents. The first comes on 5th January at 16:30, with a home clash against Manchester United, a historic rivalry that needs no introduction. This is followed by an away trip to Nottingham Forest on 14th January at 20:00, a potentially unpredictable encounter against a team who have surprised everyone and currently sit 2nd in the table.

Photo: IMAGO

On 18th January at 15:00, Liverpool face Brentford away, a side known for punching above their weight. Finally, the month concludes with an away trip to newly-promoted Ipswich Town on 25th January at 15:00, a match that might look straightforward but carries hidden risks.

With the league table delicately poised, every point is critical. Rotation in other competitions will ensure key players are fresh for these decisive fixtures. The league, as always, remains Liverpool’s primary objective.

Champions League Group Stage: Job Already Done

Liverpool have breezed through the Champions League group stage, sitting comfortably at the top with 18 points from six games. They’ve secured qualification to the knockout stages as one of the top eight teams, rendering the next match inconsequential. The final group-stage fixtures against LOSC Lille on 21st January at 20:00 and then PSV on 29th January at 20:00 carry little weight. The likes of Endo, Elliott and Morton should be front and centre for these.

Even if Liverpool fail to secure another point, their top-eight finish remains untouched. This is the perfect opportunity to field a scratch team of academy players and rotational players, offering them valuable experience while keeping first-team stars rested for domestic battles.

Photo: IMAGO

FA Cup: A Competition for the Squad Players

The FA Cup’s magic has waned massively and pragmatism must prevail. Liverpool’s third-round tie against Accrington Stanley on 11th January at 12:15 is one where risks must be minimised. Given the opposition’s lower-league status, Liverpool’s second-string side should be more than capable of advancing. Resting key players here is non-negotiable, as the Premier League fixtures demand full fitness.

Carabao Cup: Semi-Final at Spurs

The Carabao Cup is now at the semi-final stage, with Liverpool set to face Tottenham Hotspur on 8th January at 20:00. While silverware is always welcome, the congested fixture list makes this competition a secondary priority. If any player’s fitness is in doubt, Slot should avoid taking risks. There’s two legs as well, so this could come into the thinking.

Balancing Ambition with Realism

January is not just a month of matches; it’s a test of Liverpool’s depth and resilience. The Premier League remains the crown jewel, and matches against Manchester United, Forest, Brentford, and Ipswich are pivotal. Resting stars during the Champions League and FA Cup games will protect them for these crucial encounters.

As Liverpool stand on 18 points in the Champions League, their European future is secure. Similarly, a rotated side can handle the domestic cup ties. The focus, quite rightly, must be on the league fixtures that will shape the title race.

Four That Matter

Liverpool’s January schedule may look daunting, but the club’s priorities are clear. By rotating the squad intelligently, Slot can ensure his team remains competitive on all fronts. With the Premier League title firmly in sight, careful planning in January will lay the foundation for success.