Manchester United v Liverpool – Premier League Preview
The summer transfer window ended with Liverpool unable to sign the defensive midfielder that was desperately needed (let alone any defensive reinforcements), however, within disappointment still lies hope for what can come. Arne Slot has brought a new and clinical style to Merseyside, which has thus far delivered two comprehensive wins against Ipswich and Brentford (both two nil victories), to kick off the 2024/24 campaign in style. With a strong defensive resilience that has earned consecutive clean sheets, there is renewed hope that a post Jürgen Klopp world is not all that daunting. Manchester United remain the biggest historical rivals for the Anfield giants, as these two Dutch coaches square off for the first time in the Premier League.
Transfer Window Impact
The recent window of change only brought the reds a single asset for the now, as the mercurial Italian star, Federico Chiesa, signed with a remit to reignite a once dazzling career trajectory. Giorgi Mamardashvili was also signed as a long-term goalkeeping option, though he will remain in La Liga at his current setting, Valencia, on a season-long loan.
Manchester United Transfer Window
The hosts have once again had a varied transfer window, as Erik ten Hag looks to get the best from his expensive summer signings, Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, Joshua Zirkzee, Noussair Mazraoui, and Manuel Ugarte. The talk of Gareth Southgate taking over at Old Stratford will emerge once again, especially if another loss were to be recorded so early in the season.
The Manchester United Availability
In terms of availability, Leny Yoro, Tyrell Malacia, Mason Mount, Rasmus Winther Hojlund, Will Fish, Victor Lindelof, and Luke Shaw, are all ruled out, whereas Manuel Ugarte will not be registered in time to make the match day squad.
Regarding early season form, and opening day win over Fulham (1-0) at Old Trafford was followed by last weekend’s disastrous 2-1 loss away to Brighton. The indifference in form and continuing injury issues continue to plague the richly assembled squad, one that will look to defend in numbers and counter attack their in-form visitors. It is hard to establish a settled team and that will lead to a dogmatic display.
Predicted Manchester United Line-up
A predicted line up for the home team is listed below, in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Matthijs de Ligt should be in line to make his first competitive start, whilst the central striking option may see either England man, Marcus Rashford, or new signing, Joshua Zirkzee, starting through the middle.
- GK: André Onana
- RB: Noussair Mazraoui
- RCB: Matthijs de Ligt
- LCB: Lisandro Martínez
- LB: Diogo Dalot
- CM: Kobbie Mainoo
- CDM: Casemiro
- ACM: Bruno Fernandes
- RM: Amad Diallo
- CF: Marcus Rashford
- LM: Alejandro Garnacho
The Liverpool Availability
In terms of injuries, Curtis Jones appears unfit for consideration, whereas Federico Chiesa will likely wait until after the upcoming international break before possible selection. The former Juve forward will need the next few weeks to acclimatize and ensure match fitness, with an apparent exclusion. Form is good and that should see the same starting lineup retained, essentially after the two good wins mentioned above.
Predicted Liverpool Line-up
Below is the team I believe the Dutch boss, Arne Slot, will start for this huge encounter. Liverpool struggled to break down a determined United team last year, though a more patient and incisive approach could work against a side that will drop into a deep block.
- GK: Alisson Becker
- RB: Trent Alexander Arnold
- RCB: Ibrahima Konaté
- LCB: Virgil van Dijk (c)
- LB: Andy Robertson
- CM: Ryan Gravenberch
- CM: Alexis Mac Allister
- ACM: Dominik Szoboszlai
- RF: Mohamed Salah
- CF: Diogo Jota
- LF: Luis Díaz
How Will This Contest Play Out
Liverpool will come into this game with clarity in their work and a game plan to undermine a side that is struggling to find itself. I do not see a way in which the Reds lose this game, with so much firepower operating ahead of a rearguard that is producing the lowest XG for goals conceded in the top tier. In a period just prior to when England stars will join the new interim Head Coach, Lee Carsley, I expect the world-class abilities of Trent Alexander Arnold to shine bright in front of the new Three Lions boss.
Player to Watch
Trent Alexander Arnold
Score Prediction
Manchester United 1 – 3 Liverpool
