Liverpool manager Arne Slot has stated that failing to secure Champions League football would result in an "unacceptable season" for the club.
The declaration comes after Liverpool suffered a damaging 2-1 defeat to Manchester City on Sunday, conceding two late goals despite holding a lead.
This loss leaves Liverpool in sixth position in the Premier League, level on points with Brentford and trailing Chelsea and Manchester United in the race for Champions League qualification.
Slot stressed that his team must perform "close to perfection" to bridge the current points gap and catch the teams in the top five.
He described the current campaign as his "toughest season" as a manager, highlighting the team's inconsistent results and difficulty in maintaining momentum.