Manchester United are gearing up to face their fierce rivals Liverpool at Old Trafford in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. Erik ten Hag’s side will be looking to bounce back after a mixed start to the season, but injuries have forced the Dutch manager to make some adjustments to his lineup.
With several key players sidelined, Ten Hag will rely on a blend of experience and youth as he aims to secure a crucial victory against one of the Premier League’s arch-rivals. Here’s a look
Manchester United Predicted XI vs Liverpool
Goalkeeper & Defenders
Andre Onana: His shot-stopping ability and confidence in playing out from the back make him a crucial figure against a potent Liverpool attack. Onana’s experience in big matches will be vital as he faces one of the most dangerous forward lines in the league.
Diogo Dalot: Dalot is expected to retain his place at right-back. His defensive solidity and ability to contribute in attack with his crossing and overlapping runs make him a valuable asset. Dalot’s task will be to contain Liverpool’s pacy wingers while also providing support to United’s own forwards.
Lisandro Martínez: Martínez, known for his aggressive defending and excellent reading of the game, is likely to start at centre-back. His partnership with De Ligt will be key in keeping Liverpool’s attackers at bay. Martínez’s composure under pressure will be crucial in dealing with the high-intensity pressing game that Liverpool is known for.
Matthijs de Ligt: De Ligt is set to make his first start for Manchester United after coming off the bench in previous games. The Dutch defender brings strength and aerial prowess to United’s backline. His experience in top European competitions will be invaluable in a match of this magnitude.
Noussair Mazraoui: Mazraoui is expected to start at left-back in the absence of Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia. The Moroccan defender is versatile and capable of playing on either side of the defence. His ability to join the attack and deliver accurate crosses could be a key weapon for United against Liverpool.
Midfielders
Casemiro: Casemiro remains the anchor of United’s midfield. His experience, tackling ability, and leadership qualities are vital in protecting the defence and disrupting Liverpool’s attacking rhythm. Casemiro’s battle against Liverpool’s midfield trio will be one of the key matchups in this game.
Kobbie Mainoo: The young midfielder is likely to get the nod alongside Casemiro. Mainoo has impressed with his composure on the ball and his ability to link up play between defence and attack. His energy and work rate will be essential in covering the ground and helping United maintain control in the midfield battle.
Bruno Fernandes: Fernandes will play his usual role as the creative hub of the team. His vision, passing range, and ability to score from a distance make him a constant threat. Fernandes will be tasked with unlocking Liverpool’s defence with his incisive passes and clever movement.
Forwards
Marcus Rashford: Rashford is expected to start on the left wing where his pace and directness can cause problems for Liverpool’s right-back. After a strong pre-season, Rashford will be eager to make an impact in this high-profile match.
Alejandro Garnacho: Garnacho has been impressive coming off the bench in recent games, and he is likely to be rewarded with a starting spot. The young Argentine winger has shown great potential with his dribbling skills and willingness to take on defenders. Garnacho’s creativity and unpredictability could be key to breaking down Liverpool’s defence.
Joshua Zirkzee: With Rasmus Højlund still sidelined, Zirkzee is set to lead the line for United. The young striker made an immediate impact with a goal on his debut and will be looking to build on that performance.
Predicted Manchester United XI: Onana, Mazraoui, De Ligt, Martinez, Dalot, Casemiro, Mainoo, Garnacho, Fernandes, Rashford, Zirkzee
Liverpool Predicted XI vs Manchester United
Liverpool faces a significant challenge as they travel to Old Trafford to take on Manchester United this Sunday. Under new manager Arne Slot, the Reds have started the season strongly with convincing wins over Ipswich Town and Brentford.
Slot’s tactics and lineup will be tested against a formidable United side and while Curtis Jones remains a doubt the rest of the squad is in good shape. Here’s a look at how Liverpool may line up for this crucial Premier League clash.
Goalkeeper & Defenders
Alisson Becker: Alisson remains Liverpool’s undisputed number one. Despite the arrival of Giorgi Mamardashvili, the Brazilian goalkeeper’s position is secure. His shot-stopping ability and distribution will be vital in managing the threats posed by Manchester United’s attackers.
Trent Alexander-Arnold: Alexander-Arnold will continue at right-back, where his excellent passing and attacking prowess are crucial. His defensive skills will be put to the test against the pace of Marcus Rashford, but his ability to create chances from the flank will be key for Liverpool.
Ibrahima Konate: Konate has returned to the starting lineup, having reclaimed his spot from Jarell Quansah. His physicality and speed make him an essential part of Liverpool’s defence, especially against a powerful forward like Joshua Zirkzee.
Virgil van Dijk: Van Dijk remains a pillar of Liverpool’s backline. His leadership and defensive capabilities are unmatched, and he will be tasked with neutralizing threats from both Zirkzee and any potential movement from Bruno Fernandes.
Andy Robertson: Robertson’s return to the left-back position has been a welcome boost for Liverpool. His dynamic runs and link-up play with Luis Diaz will be important, particularly as he looks to exploit spaces and support attacks from the left flank.
Midfielders
Dominik Szoboszlai: Szoboszlai has been a standout performer early in the season, offering creativity and energy in midfield. His ability to make forward runs and link up play will be crucial in breaking down United’s defensive setup.
Ryan Gravenberch: Gravenberch has been deployed as a defensive midfielder, a role that suits his physicality and ball-winning skills. Against Manchester United, he will need to provide a shield for the defence and disrupt their attacking flow.
Alexis Mac Allister: Mac Allister will complement Gravenberch in midfield, adding a mix of creativity and defensive support. His previous goal against Manchester United in the FA Cup highlights his knack for contributing in crucial moments.
Forwards
Mohamed Salah: Salah’s record against Manchester United is impressive, with 14 goals and four assists in 15 matches. His sharpness and finishing ability will be vital in capitalizing on any opportunities that arise against a potentially shaky United defence.
Diogo Jota: Jota will lead the attack, having impressed with a goal against Ipswich and an assist against Brentford. His movement and ability to link up with Salah and Diaz make him a key threat up front.
Luis Diaz: Diaz appears to be back to his best under Slot, showing electric pace and creativity. His previous performances against Manchester United and his form this season make him a significant threat on the left wing.
Predicted Liverpool XI: Alisson Becker, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Ibrahima Konate, Virgil van Dijk, Andy Robertson, Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch, Dominik Szoboszlai, Mohamed Salah, Diogo Jota, Luis Diaz.