After a short international break, Manchester United are recharging and readying themselves for one of the most anticipated fixtures of the season, a trip to Anfield to face arch-rivals Liverpool F.C..
Head coach Rúben Amorim gave players who were not involved with their national teams three full days off on Friday, Saturday and Sunday to rest and recover. The squad returned to Carrington on Monday to start preparations for the clash that could define their early-season momentum.
Liverpool Dealing with Defensive Crisis
Liverpool comes into this match under pressure. Jürgen Klopp’s men have suffered three consecutive defeats and are dealing with mounting injury problems, particularly at the back. French defender Ibrahima Konaté pulled out of international duty this week due to injury, and it remains unclear whether he’ll recover in time for Sunday’s “North-West Derby.”
In contrast, United’s injury list is relatively short. Only Lisandro Martínez is ruled out. That gives Amorim a near full-strength squad, something of a luxury going into a high-stakes match.
It’s been almost a decade since United last won at Anfield. Their previous triumph came in 2016, when Wayne Rooney scored the only goal in a 1-0 win under Louis van Gaal. Last season, Amorim’s side came close but were held to a 2-2 draw. Now, with his first anniversary as United manager approaching, he’s determined to finally end that barren run.
Lamens Set to Start Again Between the Posts
One of the brightest stories before the break was the stunning debut of 23-year-old goalkeeper Sena Lamens. His performance in the 2-0 win over Sunderland A.F.C. was commanding and composed, drawing comparisons to club legend Peter Schmeichel from fans in the stands.
With no reason to make a change, Amorim is expected to keep faith in Lamens for the trip to Anfield.
Amorim’s three-at-the-back system has found some stability. Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt and Luke Shaw are expected to form the back line once again.
Shaw’s form has been inconsistent, but as the only left-footed centre-back currently available, and with plenty of Anfield experience, his inclusion seems all but certain.
Bruno and Casemiro are Still the Midfield Core
Amorim is unlikely to tinker with his midfield either. Captain Bruno Fernandes and veteran Casemiro are nailed-on starters in his 3-4-3.
Although Fernandes has faced criticism for playing deeper, Amorim continues to trust his leadership and distribution. Casemiro, despite his age, remains the most reliable shield in front of the defence, with neither Manuel Ugarte nor Kobbie Mainoo quite ready to displace him.
Mainoo has been working hard during the break, sharing footage of his extra training sessions in Spain. But despite his impressive dedication, Amorim’s system doesn’t perfectly fit his profile, and it’s likely he’ll have to settle for a place on the bench once again.
The most interesting selection questions may come on the flanks. Amad Diallo started as right wing-back against Sunderland, but Amorim usually opts for a more defensively solid option against top opponents.
If Noussair Mazraoui recovers from injury and is deemed fit, he could slot straight back into the starting XI. If not, Diogo Dalot may move to the right, with Patrick Dorgu pushing for a recall on the opposite flank.
Mount Keeps His Spot, Sesko Leads the Line
Up front, Mason Mount is expected to keep his place after scoring and impressing against Sunderland. It’s been a stop-start career at United so far, largely due to injuries, but when fit, Mount adds energy and creativity that Amorim values.
Bryan Mbeumo has started every Premier League match since arriving for £71 million from Brentford F.C., and his pace and work rate have been crucial in Amorim’s tactical setup.
Leading the line, there’s no debate: Benjamin Šeško has scored in back-to-back matches and is in red-hot form. With Liverpool’s defence stretched thin, Amorim will be counting on the 6’4” striker to cause plenty of problems.
United haven’t had many better chances in recent years to grab a result at Anfield. Liverpool are wounded and vulnerable, while Amorim’s team are healthy, confident and hitting form at the right time.
A win wouldn’t just end a long drought in this fixture; it could also serve as a defining moment of Amorim’s tenure. For United fans, it’s a glimmer of hope that the tide might finally be turning.
