The 2024–2025 Premier League season is well under way, with plenty of activity happening quickly. This weekend at Old Trafford, two of the nation’s fiercest rivals square off as Manchester United hosts Liverpool in the third week of the league.
Joshua Zirkzee’s late debut goal against Fulham gave Ten Hag’s team a great start, but a week later, Joao Pedro of Brighton upset the Red Devils with a stoppage-time winner. Liverpool, on the other hand, has won two straight games by a score of 2-0 to easily navigate through the first two weeks of play. They are currently one of only four teams to have won every game thus far. They are full of confidence and faith in Arne Slot’s recently instilled beliefs going into this weekend’s match.
When the two north-west titans met in the US for their respective pre-season tours earlier this year, fans got to see the match between the two Dutch tacticians. Even though it was only a friendly, Arne Slot’s squad destroyed the opposition 3-0, and he’ll be wanting to see it happen again. However, Ten Hag will be focused on repairing his side’s reputation while also getting the season form record back on track.
Manchester United Team News
Erik Ten Hag compelled into changes
Initially, it was believed that Mason Mount’s substitution for Zirkzee at halftime was a tactical move, but Ten Hag subsequently disclosed that the decision was made due to fitness concerns. The former Chelsea player had a miserable rookie campaign hampered by injuries last year, and this might regrettably be another in the same family.
Mount enters the club’s medical treatment room alongside Luke Shaw, Leny Yoro, and Rasmus Hojlund, all of whom have chronic ailments. It is very possible that Scott McTominay has already played his last minute while wearing a Manchester United shirt since he is about to accept a contract with the Italian team Napoli.
The Red Devils intend to replace the departing Scotsman with PSG’s midfield anchorman, Manuel Ugarte, as soon as possible. The Uruguayan may be able to register in time for the Sunday match, but it might be too optimistic to expect him to be called up right away for the starting lineup.
Man United’s potential starting lineup
Since Hojlund left the center-forward position vacant, Bruno Fernandes has been used as a temporary false nine. Fans may have expected more, but the results haven’t been as abundant as they have been, especially since Zirkzee joined the team. The former Bayern Munich player, who has scored in two substitute appearances, ought to lead the team at Old Trafford.
As a result, Fernandes ought likely take Mount’s spot at number 10, with Marcus Rashford and Amad Diallo filling in on either flank. Casemiro is probably going to hold his place for the foreseeable future, as it might be too soon for the soon-to-be United midfielder, Ugarte.
A concerning lack of containment from Brighton’s attacking force at the Amex last week may prompt some defensive adjustments, particularly considering Liverpool’s overwhelming offensive strength. After joining for £43 million from the Bavarians, Matthijs de Ligt has made two appearances as a substitute, but Ten Hag may be about to give the Dutch international his first-team debut. The remainder of the defence should hold true aside from that.
Liverpool Team News:
Slot has no fresh concerns.
Slot will be somewhat satisfied with the state of his players, especially considering the severity of the injury issue that is plaguing Manchester United’s first team.
One of the rare fitness issues is Curtis Jones. Slot, who was not present at the latest match against Brentford, claimed it wasn’t a significant setback, although it is unclear if he will be available this weekend. Due to Jarrel Quansah’s fitness concerns during the same tie with the Bees, Ibrahima Konate played the first ninety minutes of the season. The 21-year-old was previously hooked after 45 minutes in the opening game against Ipswich Town, suggesting that the Frenchman would be favoured to start again.
Liverpool’s potential starting lineup
An inert eleven for the Reds
Liverpool should be able to go about their business as usual after two straight convincing wins. Konate is already participating and playing well, so there’s no need to deviate from the dependable five at the back.
Ryan Gravenberch, a 22-year-old sensation, has found a spot in the centre of midfield under Slot, while Mac Allister and Szoboszlai, who have more experience, should continue either side in the middle of the park.
Luiz Diaz, Diogo Jota, and Mohammad Salah have all scored goals for Liverpool this season, accounting for all four of the team’s total goals. The three are clearly doing a great job in their positions, and this weekend they should be put to use again.
