Arne Slot seems to be on a winning streak as Liverpool's manager. However, the fates of Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold are casting a shadow over this spectacular season. Liverpool enters Wednesday's crucial Champions League clash against Real Madrid at the top of the European table and with an eight-point lead in the Premier League, thanks to Slot's near-perfect start.

"Liverpool's Season Hinges on Uncertain Fates"

Slot's Early Success

The Dutchman has achieved remarkable results, winning 16 out of his 18 matches. This has defied the predicted post-Jurgen Klopp hangover. Salah, at 32, has been the driving force with 12 goals and 10 assists in all competitions. His recent two goals against Southampton on Sunday have further fueled speculation about his future.Salah, along with captain van Dijk and homegrown hero Alexander-Arnold, 26, are out of contract at the end of the season and can start negotiations with foreign clubs in a little over a month. Van Dijk revealed last month that he has begun talks about extending his deal. Alexander-Arnold might even face his potential future employers in midweek as Madrid is keen on signing him for free.

Potential Glory and Revenge

Rather than disrupting Slot's Anfield tenure, the opportunity for one last shot at glory has united Liverpool's old guard. Salah, among others, has a score to settle with Real Madrid, who have won the competition 15 times compared to Liverpool's six. Liverpool has struggled in their past eight meetings with Madrid, including two Champions League finals. In 2018, Salah was forced off with a sling after a tackle by Sergio Ramos, and in 2022, Thibaut Courtois denied them several times.This time, Liverpool appears ready to seek revenge against a Madrid side dealing with injuries and struggling to find the right balance since the arrival of Kylian Mbappe. A hamstring injury to Vinicius Junior has added to Carlo Ancelotti's troubles, with defenders Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao ruled out for the season. Liverpool, with a perfect 12 points so far, is in a strong position.Madrid's visit might not be the biggest game at Anfield this week as struggling Premier League champions Manchester City are next up on Sunday. It's a chance for Slot's team to deal a fatal blow in the title race. There is a hunger on Merseyside for their new manager to succeed where Klopp failed in six matches against Madrid."We indeed have incredible fixtures coming up," said the former Feyenoord boss when facing Madrid and City over five days. "They are two teams that have dominated football in the last few years." With an uncertain future, Liverpool is thriving in the present.