Liverpool enter 2026 facing one of the most uncertain periods of the modern era. Expectations were high when Arne Slot arrived at Anfield, but the first half of the season has fallen well short of title-winning standards. The dream of retaining the Premier League crown appears all but gone, forcing a sharp shift in focus toward securing Champions League qualification.
Beyond results on the pitch, deeper structural questions now dominate the agenda. Contract situations, squad balance, and tactical clarity are all under scrutiny. How Liverpool answer these issues over the next twelve months could define the trajectory of the club for years to come.
The Uncertain Future of Mohamed Salah
The most pressing question surrounds Mohamed Salah, whose future has become increasingly unclear. Slot has attempted to cool tensions publicly, yet speculation continues to grow with the January transfer window approaching.
Recent frustration from Salah, visible both on and off the pitch, has only fueled rumors that his time at Anfield may be nearing an end. While supporters hope that is not the case, the reality is that his role within Slot’s system is evolving.
The critical issue is whether Salah is willing to stay if he is no longer guaranteed to start every high-profile match. Liverpool must decide quickly whether to recommit to their talisman or begin preparing for life after one of the club’s greatest modern icons.
Ibrahima Konate’s Contract Stalemate
Salah is not the only star with unresolved contractual matters. The situation involving Ibrahima Konate has dragged on for far too long and is becoming a source of concern.
The French center-back is approaching the final months of his deal, leaving Liverpool at risk of losing a key defensive asset for nothing. Interest from Real Madrid once loomed large, although that threat appears to have cooled following an inconsistent season from Konate.
Even so, Liverpool cannot afford complacency. If Madrid truly step away, the club must move decisively to secure an extension or risk destabilizing the back line at a critical moment.
Andy Robertson and a Changing Role
Few players embody Liverpool’s recent success more than Andy Robertson, but his status within the squad has clearly shifted. With his contract running down and competition intensifying, the Scotland international finds himself at a crossroads.
The arrival of Milos Kerkez was widely viewed as a long-term solution at left-back, inevitably reducing Robertson’s minutes. As a result, the urgency to extend his contract is no longer what it once was.
After nearly a decade of service, Robertson has earned the right to shape his own future. Interest from clubs such as Atletico Madrid would be no surprise, and Liverpool must decide whether sentiment or strategy guides their next move.
Unlocking Florian Wirtz’s Best Position
Among the brighter notes this season has been the gradual rise of Florian Wirtz. After a slow adaptation period, the German playmaker is beginning to show why Liverpool invested so heavily in his talent.
Yet a key tactical puzzle remains unresolved: where does Wirtz fit best in Slot’s system? Deployments on the left flank have produced flashes of brilliance, but many believe his natural home is as a central No.10.
Injuries elsewhere have forced Slot to use Wirtz wide, limiting his influence at times. Until a consistent role is established, Liverpool are unlikely to see the full value of one of Europe’s most gifted young creators.
The Unanswered Ekitike–Isak Partnership
Supporters have long dreamed of a devastating forward partnership between Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak. Unfortunately, that vision remains largely theoretical.
Whenever Slot has attempted to pair them, the experiment has ended early—either due to tactical complications or physical setbacks. Now, Isak’s long-term injury has put the idea on hold entirely.
For the foreseeable future, Liverpool must rely on Ekitike as the focal point of the attack. Whether the club will ever see this much-anticipated duo operate consistently together remains an open question.
Will Liverpool Renew Their Interest in Marc Guehi?
Defensive reinforcements are still high on Liverpool’s priority list. The failure to secure Marc Guehi late in the previous transfer window has already proven costly.
The dilemma now is timing. Do Liverpool return for Guehi in January, despite resistance from his club, or wait until summer when he could become available as a free agent? Both options carry significant risk.
Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes face a delicate balancing act. Whether Guehi remains the primary target or alternatives emerge will reveal much about Liverpool’s long-term defensive strategy.
As 2026 approaches, Liverpool stand at a crossroads. Answers to these six questions will determine whether this transitional season becomes a temporary setback or the beginning of a deeper rebuild. For Slot and the club hierarchy, clarity—and decisiveness—can no longer be delayed.
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