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When Liverpool host Manchester United this Sunday at Anfield, it’s far more than just another fixture on the calendar. This is rivalry football at its rawest: history, prestige and local bragging rights all bundled into 90 minutes. Both clubs are under pressure for different reasons, and how they step up or don’t could define parts of their season. Here’s a breakdown of how things stand, key team-news developments you need to know, and what to watch when the starting whistle blows.
Liverpool’s Pain, But Some Good News
Injury updates
For Liverpool, the spotlight is partly bright. Ibrahima Konaté, who limped off with a muscle injury before the international break and missed France duty, has returned to training. Head coach Arne Slot said: “Ibou has come back to us, started the sessions again and is expected to train with us today.” He duly joined the squad at their AXA Training Centre. That’s a major boost.
Similarly, Ryan Gravenberch who was substituted at half-time for the Netherlands due to a hamstring concern is now rated as “completely fit,” though Slot emphasises they’d still train twice before committing.
On the flip side: goalkeeper Alisson Becker remains sidelined. Slot says there’s no return for this weekend or next week, which points to a longer lay-off than some hoped. The responsibility falls to Giorgi Mamardashvili, who is in line for his second Premier League outing.
What it means for the team
With Konaté back, Liverpool regain an option in the heart of defence and help stabilise a unit that has shown cracks. But Alisson’s absence is a major loss goalkeeper is a unique role, and stepping in mid-season is never seamless. The confidence and experience he brings won’t be instantly replaced.
Adding to that: Liverpool have lost three games in a row across competitions. Results don’t lie and they know it. The international break arrived at a timely moment for them to reset.
Who to watch
Konaté: If he starts, his presence could calm Liverpool’s backline and enable Slot to be more ambitious.
Mamardashvili: How he deals with the pressure will be key; United’s attack won’t relent.
Gravenberch: His fitness opens up midfield options if he’s sharp, he could help the Reds regain control.
Manchester United: A Cast of Questions
Injury and availability news
Over at United, head coach Rúben Amorim has some headaches and also some hope. Defender Lisandro Martínez is nearing a return from an ACL injury but won’t be ready for this one. Amorim said: “Licha is near, but almost returning to the trainings with the team.”
Right-back Noussair Mazraoui remains uncertain after missing time, though there are signs of a return. Meanwhile, Diogo Dalot returned early from Portugal duty with a muscle complaint, which raises doubts. Amorim said they are balancing recovery with readiness for a tough game.
One positive: goalkeeper Senne Lammens, who made a clean-sheet debut against Sunderland, may keep his place. “First impression is really important. To maintain the level is even more important and really difficult,” said Amorim.
What it means for United
United come into this match with some structure but also with key absences. Martínez’s continuing absence prolongs their defensive reorganisation. Mazraoui and Dalot’s fitness uncertainties mean the backline might feature less-experienced or rotated players. Keeping Lammens at goal is bold: he acquitted himself well, but this is a much bigger splash of water.
On the positive side, United are returning from a win (2-0 vs Sunderland) so they have some momentum. But travelling to Anfield rarely favours them especially not when facing a Liverpool side needing to respond.
Who to watch
Lammens: A strong debut, but this is his biggest test yet. Mazraoui/Dalot: Whoever starts at right-back must handle Liverpool’s wide threats.United’s midfield combo of Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro: Given Liverpool’s injury context, the battle here could be decisive.
Key Match-Up Questions
1. Can Liverpool recover their defensive head?
They’ve conceded goals via set-pieces, quick breaks and open play. Slot has admitted they’re aware of the problems. Konaté’s presence, together with Van Dijk, should help but they’ll need full backs and midfield cover to pull through.
2. Who starts in goal for United?
If Lammens plays, whether he can maintain the confidence and solidity he showed against Sunderland will be crucial. A shaky goalkeeping performance here could undo United’s day.
3. Can United exploit Liverpool’s vulnerabilities?
Given Liverpool’s recent poor form, United have a chance but they’ll need to be brave yet disciplined. The absence of Martínez weakens United’s defensive bedrock, but Liverpool’s attacking personnel might give them openings to hit.
4. Which front-line seizes control?
Liverpool: With Alexander Isak now “close to the level he should be”, Slot says we can finally “judge him in a fair way” from here on. United: They will look to forward moves and wide options to unsettle Liverpool’s back-line. Whoever breaks through first will gain momentum.
Conclusion
This match is scarcely about just three points. For Liverpool it’s a chance to halt a slide, rebuild confidence and reaffirm their status. For United it’s an opportunity to make a statement, to show progress and to take back some form of momentum. If I were to lean: Liverpool likely start stronger, given home advantage and urgency. But United, if disciplined, could make it a game. Either way, history suggests goals, emotion, and moments that linger.
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Thank you for your continued support, and let’s cheer Liverpool on to success in the upcoming match. Your thoughts are always welcome in the comments section. For further insights, you may explore the official Liverpool FC website by clicking here.
YNWA (You’ll Never Walk Alone)!
The Liverpool FC Times Team
LiverpoolFCTimes.com