Arne Slot's real test at Liverpool begins after Bayer Leverkusen challenge

Arne Slot's Liverpool thrashed Xabi Alonso's Bayer Leverkusen 4-0 in their Champions League meeting, with former player turned manager having a rather unpleasant return to Anfield. A Luis Diaz hat trick pretty much cemented the Reds to the top of the Champions League table after 4 games.

Fans will remember that Xabi was once a hot contender to replace club-legend Jürgen Klopp but Slot has done wonders at Merseyside.

The Dutch Boss has now set a new record for most games won in a manager's opening 16 fixtures, surpassing Jose Mourinho and Carlo Ancelotti, who both had 13 victories, compared to Slot's 14.

However, some might contend that his Liverpool side are yet to perform against any big names. Looking forward to Liverpool's schedule is surely daunting for Arne Slot, as his side prepares to host Aston Villa and Manchester City in consecutive home games.

What's more intensifying is that they will host Real Madrid in their next Champions League fixture.

That being said, the odds aren't entirely against them, since the Los Blancos are currently on a losing streak. Having lost 3-1 to Milan at the Bernabeu, Real Madrid currently sit 17th in the Champions League table, something that was unexpected of current cup-holders.

Carlo Ancelotti needs to iron out several issues before his team visits Anfield. Liverpool's last victory over Real Madrid dates back to March 11, 2009, when Xabi Alonso was on the field for the Reds.

Hopefully, Salah finally gets his much-awaited revenge, and considering the form the Egyptian is in, there's hope in the upcoming 90 mins.

Domestically, fixtures against Unai Emery and Pep Guardiola will establish Slot's standing in big games. Both Aston Villa and Manchester City have lost their previous league games so there is light at the end of the tunnel for Slot.

Upcoming away games include a trip to St. Mary's Stadium, with the Reds also playing the Saints in the Quarterfinals of the Carabao Cup next month.

Liverpool will also be playing at St. James Park after which they play in the Merseyside Derby at Goodison Park.

Their last visit was far from enjoyable as the Reds lost 2-0, ending their 3-year winning streak against the Toffees. Arne Slot's only defeat comes in a 1-0 home loss to Nottingham Forest, who are surprisingly sitting 3rd in the league table after 10 games.

The last time Liverpool won 8 out of their 10 opening games in the Premier League was during the 2018-19 season, in which they won the Champions League.

Hopefully, it won't be the only piece of silverware resting at Anfield since Arne Slot's arrival. If Slot's side shines in the upcoming fixtures, one can finally say that he's rising to the occasion.