Manchester United vs Liverpool Preview: Arne Slot faces his first MASSIVE test!
A colossal fixture looms as Manchester United host Liverpool in a highly anticipated clash, marking the first time since 2015 that United won’t be up against a Jürgen Klopp-led Liverpool. United had a dismal record against Klopp’s Liverpool, so they’ll be eager to start afresh under Liverpool’s new manager, Arne Slot. Liverpool has begun the season brightly, securing 2-0 victories against Ipswich and Brentford, displaying a well-organized and potent attack under Slot’s early guidance. Meanwhile, United’s start has been mixed; they managed an opening win against Fulham but were left disappointed by a narrow 2-1 defeat to Brighton in the following match.
Just like in 2022/23, United now face Liverpool in Matchweek 3 at Old Trafford—a critical juncture where Erik ten Hag’s men seriously need to deliver a result to avoid early-season pressure. A victory would not only boost United’s morale but also set the tone for what could be a defining season under Ten Hag. The stakes are incredibly high, and both teams will be desperate to claim the bragging rights in what promises to be an intense encounter.
Is this the best transfer window for Man United since the Fergie era? 🔥
— 365Scores (@365Scores) August 31, 2024
The Red Devils have made some big moves 🤯
Are they finally back on top? 🏆 pic.twitter.com/pj7zBTu4BI
All you need to know!
Team News:
Manchester United
After a bright start to the season, midfielder Mason Mount is set to miss several weeks after suffering a hamstring injury during last weekend’s defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion.
Striker Rasmus Højlund will be unavailable until after the international break after suffering a hamstring injury against Arsenal in pre-season, while Victor Lindelöf, Luke Shaw, new signing Leny Yoro, and Tyrell Malacia remain sidelined.
New signing Manuel Ugarte, confirmed on deadline day, is not available for selection (due to logistical matters, not physical ones), but will likely be on the sideline or in the Director’s Box at Old Trafford.
Matthijs de Ligt might start his first game for Manchester United, and Noussair Mazraoui is likely to start his third consecutive game.
Liverpool
Liverpool’s new recruit, Federico Chiesa, is unlikely to be part of the squad for Sunday’s match, having only joined training on Friday.
Curtis Jones has missed training this week and is expected to be unavailable for the game.
Key Players:
Manchester United: Lisandro Martinez
Lisandro Martinez has become indispensable to Manchester United, especially in high-stakes matches like this one. His absence last season was glaring, as his ability to anchor the defense and initiate attacks from the back was sorely missed. Martinez’s line-breaking passes, particularly through the left side, add a crucial dimension to United’s build-up play.
His tenacity and aggressive defending make him the ideal player to combat Liverpool’s potent attack. In a game where defensive solidity will be key, Martinez’s leadership and skill will be essential if United are to come out on top.
🔥🗣️ Lisandro Martínez on Adama Traore: pic.twitter.com/1hh0RCvyVm
— 365Scores (@365Scores) August 17, 2024
Liverpool: Mohamed Salah
Mohamed Salah has consistently thrived against Manchester United, boasting an incredible record of 11 goals in 13 Premier League appearances against them, making him the fixture’s most prolific scorer. His ability to find the back of the net at Old Trafford is unmatched, having scored in each of his last six visits, totaling nine goals.
This season, Salah has started in top form, with two goals and an assist in just two games. His combination of pace, precision, and killer instinct makes him Liverpool’s most dangerous weapon. If he continues this level of performance, Salah could once again be the decisive factor in this historic rivalry.
Key Statistics:
- Manchester United have struggled against Liverpool in recent years, winning just one of their last 12 Premier League encounters—a 2-1 victory at Old Trafford in their third game of the 2022/23 season.
- This match marks the first Premier League clash between two Dutch managers since Guus Hiddink’s Chelsea defeated Ronald Koeman’s Southampton 2-1 in 2016.
- United have not kept consecutive home clean sheets in the league for 16 months
- They are just one goal away from reaching 200 under Erik ten Hag, with Marcus Rashford contributing 38 of those goals.
- If Arne Slot wins, he would be the first permanent Liverpool manager to win his debut league game against United since Bob Paisley did in 1975.
By Nicky Helfgott – NickyHelfgott1 on X (Twitter)
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