Liverpool boss Arne Slot has an easier task than Jurgen Klopp against Real Madrid

Arne Slot might consider himself somewhat lucky to be in such a favorable position in the Premier League and Champions League, at least more so than his Liverpool predecessor Jurgen Klopp.

The Dutchman has had such an incredible start to his reign as Liverpool head coach that it even helped ease the blow felt by his fans after the loss of their beloved German manager.

Liverpool sit at the top of both leagues, with Slot guiding the Reds to 10 wins in 12 games domestically. They also top the 36 teams in the prestigious European club competition after winning all four of their European encounters so far.

Two clashes in the space of four days could shape the rest of their season, with Real Madrid and Manchester City both visiting their hallowed Anfield this week. And fortunately for Slot, one of the most in-form players in the world could be missing.

Vinicius Junior is set to miss Wednesday's clash on Merseyside after the Spanish champions confirmed he suffered an injury during the 3-0 win over Leganes on Sunday.

“Following the examinations carried out today on our player Vini Jr. by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he was diagnosed with an injury to the biceps femoris of his left leg,” the statement said.

The biceps femoris is a muscle in the back of the thigh that helps move the hip and knee joints, which suggests that there is a good chance that Vini Jr will not be part of the traveling party in the The plane was heading to Liverpool John Lennon Airport.

Although his absence would reduce the excitement of the game a bit, it would be good news for Slot if he avoids having to face a player as talented as Vinicius.

The Brazilian has been in sensational form so far this year, scoring 12 goals and providing a further five assists in 17 appearances for his club – so much so that he left Kylian Mbappe in his shadow at the Santiago Bernabeu.

He has proven to be Liverpool's kryptonite – and no one knows that better than Klopp.

The German could only attest to his brilliance as Vinicius scored five goals in as many games against his Liverpool side over the years. The 24-year-old also broke their hearts in the 2021-22 Champions League final when he scored the winning goal. Time and time again, he has proven to be the man on the big occasion for Los Blancos.

Without Trent Alexander-Arnold, he will be relieved that youngster Conor Bradley does not have to face the tough test of going up against an explosive winger.

Of course, Real are well stacked in terms of attacking depth and still need to keep Mbappe, Rodrygo, Jude Bellingham and Endrick at bay.

It's still early, but it's another indication that Liverpool's chance is there – and this could well be the year they add that elusive seventh European crown Vinicius denied them two years ago and half in their trophy cabinet.