Liverpool vs Manchester United Set to Renew Historic Rivalry
This weekend, one of English football’s most storied rivalries will be reignited as Liverpool hosts Manchester United in the Premier League. Both sides enter the fixture facing their own challenges with neither team in optimal form ahead of the showdown at Anfield.
Liverpool suffered three consecutive defeats before the October international break, casting doubt over Arne Slot’s squad and their recent performances. Meanwhile, United secured a narrow victory against Sunderland in their last outing, but remain haunted by inconsistency under manager Ruben Amorim.
The outcome of the match remains unpredictable but both clubs boast star-studded lineups capable of turning the game in their favor. Selecting a combined starting XI this early in the season was no easy task, especially given injuries and fluctuating form, but a team has been assembled based on availability and standout performances in 2025–26.
In goal, with Alisson sidelined through injury, Giorgi Mamardashvili earns the nod. The Georgian international, who has impressed in La Liga and on the international stage, is expected to benefit from a run of fixtures in Liverpool’s net.
Defensively, Liverpool’s options have been impacted by poor starts from key players. Ibrahima Konaté’s sluggish form sees him left out, while Virgil van Dijk remains Liverpool’s most reliable defender, leading in clearances and blocks and scoring a crucial Champions League goal. At right-back, Diogo Dalot’s consistency and versatility earn him a spot, despite injury setbacks, pushing Patrick Dorgu and Milos Kerkez out of the picture.
In midfield, Liverpool’s Ryan Gravenberch continues to shine, contributing goals and assists and establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s top performers. He is joined by Alexis Mac Allister, whose season has been hampered by fitness issues but who remains a vital tempo-setter. Casemiro’s resurgence and Dominik Szoboszlai’s work rate add depth, but Mac Allister’s influence is undeniable.
Up front, Mohamed Salah remains a threat despite a dip in form, with 16 career goals against United making him a constant danger. On United’s side, Bruno Fernandes continues to be a creative spark, leading in chances created despite a couple of missed penalties. Winger Bryan Mbeumo has made an immediate impact, with his explosiveness securing him a place on the left flank, while summer signing Benjamin Šeško is finding his stride after scoring in recent matches. Alexander Isak, despite a slow start, remains one of the league’s most talented strikers and is expected to find his form soon.
As these two giants prepare to clash, fans can anticipate a fiercely competitive encounter, with both teams eager to assert their dominance and reignite their season’s ambitions.
