Liverpool are closing in on the Premier League title, leading Arsenal by 12 points with just eight games to go. Under Arne Slot, the Reds need only 13 more points to secure the title, meaning five wins would mathematically seal it.
Their remaining fixtures include Fulham, West Ham, Tottenham, Aston Villa, Chelsea, Arsenal, Wolves and Crystal Palace. Depending on results elsewhere, particularly Arsenal’s, Liverpool could wrap up the title as early as May 4 at Stamford Bridge against Chelsea.
This sets up an intriguing possibility. If Liverpool are crowned champions before their May 11 home clash with Arsenal, Mikel Arteta’s side would be expected to provide a traditional guard of honour, a symbolic gesture of sportsmanship where the opposing team applauds the champions onto the pitch.
And it’s not just Arsenal who could be put in that position. If Liverpool win the league even earlier, Chelsea could be the first to give them a guard of honour on May 4. If the title isn’t secured until after that, then Arsenal on May 11 become the most likely candidates. Should the title be confirmed later still, Wolves on May 18 or even Crystal Palace on May 25 could be in line.
It’s worth noting that the guard of honour is not a mandatory tradition, and some clubs have opted out in the past. But in many seasons, including last year when Manchester City received multiple guards after clinching early, it has remained a respected part of Premier League etiquette.
Liverpool will lift the trophy at Anfield on May 25 regardless of when they secure the title. But the drama of who’ll be clapping them on, especially if it’s rivals like Chelsea or Arsenal, adds a spicy twist to the season’s finale.
It would be very much a surprise if Liverpool don’t win the league from the current position they are in.