Liverpool welcome Manchester United to Anfield this Sunday in a highly anticipated Premier League clash, with both sides heading into the fixture under very different levels of pressure. The defending champions have stumbled lately and face fitness concerns ahead of kickoff, while United arrive with growing confidence and a healthier squad.
Liverpool’s Selection Concerns
Jurgen Klopp’s side have dropped off the top of the table after back-to-back defeats to Crystal Palace and Chelsea, followed by a disappointing Champions League loss away to Galatasaray. Arsenal’s strong run means Liverpool could be four points behind by the time they step out at Anfield.
To add to their concerns, first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker remains sidelined with a hamstring injury sustained in Turkey. He is not expected to return until after the November international break.
Ibrahima Konate was forced off during the match against Chelsea and later withdrew from France duty. The French Football Federation confirmed he is dealing with a quadriceps issue. Ryan Gravenberch is another doubt after being substituted for the Netherlands, with Ronald Koeman revealing he had been managing a hamstring problem. Arne Slot is set to address both situations in his pre-match press conference.
Manchester United’s Squad Boost
Manchester United, who have not won at Anfield since 2016, may feel this is their best chance in years to break that streak. Erik ten Hag’s squad is in much better condition heading into the tie. Lisandro Martinez remains their only confirmed absentee as he continues his recovery from the ACL injury suffered in February, although he is very close to returning.
There was a brief concern when Bruno Fernandes missed training on Thursday, but reports suggest he was only given an additional recovery day after international duty with Portugal. Noussair Mazraoui could also return, having missed United’s previous two matches before the break.
Metro Predicted XI – Liverpool
Arne Slot will hope Konate and Gravenberch prove fit enough to start, as their involvement could influence the approach in midfield and defence. With Alisson out, attention will be on how Liverpool handle United’s attacking transitions.
Metro Predicted XI – Manchester United
Casemiro was left out of the starting lineup after the September international break and with Manuel Ugarte fully fit and sharp after minutes with Brazil, there is a possibility ten Hag opts for more energy in midfield from the first whistle.
Match Schedule and Broadcast Details
Liverpool vs Manchester United takes place on Sunday, 19 October with kickoff scheduled for 4:30pm. The atmosphere at Anfield is guaranteed to be electric, and with both teams under pressure to deliver, this fixture could be pivotal in shaping the early title race.
