In a dramatic twist of fate, Liverpool could still secure Champions League football next season despite their recent Premier League disappointment, handing incoming manager Arne Slot a potential £50 million lifeline.
The Reds' third-place finish initially appeared to have consigned them to Europa League football, but UEFA's complex coefficient system might yet provide an unexpected route back to Europe's top table.
The Coefficient Conundrum
England's hopes for a fifth Champions League spot now rest entirely on Aston Villa's shoulders after both Liverpool and West Ham crashed out of European competition. UEFA awards additional places to the two countries with the best collective performance across all European tournaments this season.
Germany has already secured one spot, leaving Italy and England battling for the remaining bonus qualification place. The Premier League's fate now depends on Villa overcoming Greek side Olympiacos to reach the Europa Conference League final.
Slot's Potential Windfall
Should England clinch that fifth spot, it would go to the highest-placed team not already qualified for the Champions League - which would be Tottenham in fifth, pushing Liverpool into the Europa League.
However, there's another scenario that could benefit Liverpool directly. If Tottenham were to drop points in their final two matches against Burnley and Sheffield United, and Chelsea were to overtake them, the Blues would need to win both their remaining games while hoping Spurs falter.
This would see Chelsea claim that fifth spot, leaving the coefficient-based place available for the next highest-ranked team - which would be Liverpool in sixth.
The Financial Stakes
The difference between Champions League and Europa League football is staggering. Participation in UEFA's premier competition could net Liverpool approximately £50 million more than Europa League involvement, providing Slot with significant transfer funds for his Anfield rebuild.
This financial boost could prove crucial as Slot looks to put his stamp on the squad following Jurgen Klopp's emotional departure.
Villa's Vital Role
All eyes will be on Villa's second leg against Olympiacos after their 4-2 defeat in Greece. Unai Emery's side must overcome a two-goal deficit to keep England's coefficient hopes alive and potentially open the door for Liverpool's Champions League return.
The situation represents a remarkable second chance for Liverpool, who seemed destined for Europa League football after their title challenge faded in the final weeks of Klopp's reign.
