Liverpool will host Manchester United at Anfield on Sunday, with the two clubs in vastly different situations. Liverpool, under the guidance of Arne Slot, are flying high at the top of the Premier League. Despite the contract uncertainties surrounding key players like Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, these distractions haven’t affected their performances. Liverpool are playing some of the most exciting attacking football in the league, with every player stepping up. On the other hand, Manchester United, managed by Ruben Amorim, are in a precarious position. The Red Devils have struggled, losing five of their last six matches, and are only seven points above the relegation zone as 2025 begins. Amorim has openly acknowledged that United must face the reality of a relegation battle. Despite their poor form, United have a history of pulling off surprise results against rivals, although their current form makes a win at Anfield seem highly unlikely.
In terms of predicted lineups, Liverpool face a few key decisions. Alisson will start in goal, with Alexander-Arnold, Quansah, Van Dijk, and Robertson forming the defensive line. With Joel Gomez and Ibrahima Konaté sidelined due to injury, Quansah is the only available option to partner Van Dijk at center-back, although Endo could also play there out of position. Speculation about Alexander-Arnold’s potential move to Real Madrid continues, but he will start at right back, especially with Conor Bradley still recovering from injury. In central midfield, Slot has a choice between Jones, Mac Allister, and Szoboszlai. Gravenberch will start, but Slot may opt to leave Jones out, as Mac Allister and Szoboszlai have been preferred in key games. Up front, Salah, Gakpo, and Díaz have been performing well together, with Jota, Elliott, and Nunez available as attacking options off the bench.
For Manchester United, their lineup is filled with uncertainty. Onana will start in goal, and the defensive setup is still in flux, with Yoro potentially replacing the struggling center backs. De Ligt and Maguire will battle for the central defensive spot, while Martinez will likely start on the left despite recent struggles. The wing-backs will likely be Mazraoui on the right and Dalot on the left. Mainoo and Ugarte are expected to start in midfield, with Amad Diallo and Bruno Fernandes providing support to striker Hojlund. Fernandes, back from suspension, will be vital to United’s chances, offering his experience to help launch counter-attacks.
The match promises to be a crucial one for both teams, with Liverpool aiming to maintain their lead at the top of the table and Manchester United desperately seeking to avoid further slide into the relegation zone.
