“Old Trafford is set to host one of the most thrilling encounters of the 2024/25 Premier League season as Manchester United faces Liverpool in a high-octane battle”
Old Trafford is bracing itself for what promises to be one of the most electrifying matches of the Premier League 2024/25 season. Manchester United and Liverpool, two of English football’s most storied rivals, are set to clash in a match that has all the ingredients for a footballing spectacle.
Manchester United, still reeling from a narrow victory over Fulham and a disappointing defeat to Brighton, will be looking to regain their footing in this crucial encounter. Despite a heroic effort from Joshua Zirkzee against Fulham, his subsequent misstep in the match against Brighton led to the disallowance of Garnacho’s goal at Amex Stadium, leaving United fans frustrated. The 2-3 loss to Brighton, coupled with a previous defeat to Manchester City, has left Erik ten Hag and his squad in a precarious position. The Red Devils have yet to show signs of significant improvement under Ten Hag, even with continued backing from Ineos.
September has historically been a tough month for Manchester United, particularly in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era. Since his departure, United has lost 13 out of 35 top-flight matches played in September. As they prepare to face Liverpool, the pressure is on Ten Hag to turn the tide and avoid a third loss in four official matches this season.
The spotlight will also be on the tactical battle between Erik ten Hag and Liverpool’s new manager, Arne Slot. Both managers have made their mark in Dutch football, and their friendship adds an intriguing subplot to the encounter. However, history is not on Slot’s side; the last nine Liverpool managers have all failed to defeat Manchester United in their first official match against the Red Devils.
Despite this historical challenge, Liverpool has enjoyed a dream start to their Premier League campaign under Slot. The Reds have secured back-to-back 2-0 victories against Ipswich and Brentford, demonstrating a seamless continuation of the high-intensity attacking style that was the hallmark of Jurgen Klopp’s era. Liverpool currently boasts the highest expected goals (xG) in the league at 5.3 after two rounds, highlighting their offensive prowess.
Mohamed Salah, now in his 30s, remains a lethal force in front of goal, while Luis Diaz’s tireless work rate and improved finishing have added another dimension to Liverpool’s attack. Alongside them, Diogo Jota continues to be a constant threat, always finding himself in goal-scoring positions.
Liverpool’s fearsome front three will pose a significant challenge to Manchester United’s defense, which has been far from stable this season. Defensive lapses and individual mistakes have plagued United’s backline, making them vulnerable to Liverpool’s relentless attacking pressure. If Salah and his teammates can exploit these weaknesses, they have a good chance of leaving Old Trafford with all three points.
Match Prediction:
Asian Handicap: Liverpool -0.5 (Liverpool to win)
Over/Under: Over 3.25 goals
Predicted Score: Liverpool 2-1 Manchester United
Team News:
Manchester United: Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, Mason Mount, Leny Yoro, Victor Lindelof, and Rasmus Hojlund are sidelined due to injuries.
Liverpool: Curtis Jones is unavailable, but new signing Federico Chiesa is ready to make an impact from the bench.
Projected Lineups:
Manchester United: Onana; Mazraoui, Maguire, Martinez, Dalot; Mainoo, Casemiro; Garnacho, Fernandes, Rashford; Amad.
Liverpool: Alisson; Konate, Van Dijk, Alexander-Arnold, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister, Szoboszlai; Jota, Luis Diaz, Salah.
As the teams prepare for this much-anticipated showdown, all eyes will be on Old Trafford, where two of England’s football giants will go head-to-head in what promises to be a thrilling and fiercely contested match.
