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Erik ten Hag's team secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest to advance to this stage, while Liverpool's younger players took the spotlight in a commanding 3-0 win over Southampton in the fifth round. There's speculation about Ten Hag's future, with rumors suggesting he might not be the long-term solution, but he still has a chance to guide Manchester United to more silverware this season.
Manchester United has been in fine form, cruising past Wigan Athletic and Newport County in earlier FA Cup rounds and overcoming a tough challenge from Nottingham Forest. Their recent victory against Everton further boosts their confidence, maintaining an impressive scoring streak.
Liverpool, on the other hand, demonstrated their attacking prowess in the Europa League, crushing Sparta Prague with a flurry of goals. Despite a draw against Manchester City in the Premier League, they're still in contention for the title. Their recent form in FA Cup quarter-finals has been impeccable, winning their last six encounters.
This match holds significance for both teams, especially considering their recent encounters. Liverpool will be eager to avenge their earlier losses to Manchester United and continue their quest for FA Cup glory.
INJURIES & SUSPENSION
Just as Rasmus Hojlund was hitting his stride in England, an unfortunate muscular injury sidelined the £72 million striker. However, both Erik ten Hag and Denmark's head coach, Kasper Hjulmand, have indicated that the Premier League Player of the Month for February should make his return this weekend.Manchester United is hopeful about the fitness of Harry Maguire and Aaron Wan-Bissaka, while Mason Mount, who has been out with a calf injury for some time, has finally resumed training but will be given more time to fully recover.
While Hojlund is expected to be cleared for action, Omari Forson's availability remains uncertain. Unfortunately, Anthony Martial (groin), Luke Shaw (muscle), Tyrell Malacia (knee), and Lisandro Martinez (knee) are still on the road to recovery from their respective issues.
Additionally, it was revealed on Friday that backup goalkeeper Altay Bayindir sustained a muscle strain, ruling him out of the quarter-final, although he wouldn't have started anyway. Jonny Evans is also nursing a minor injury.
On the Liverpool side, Jurgen Klopp's team didn't emerge unscathed from Thursday's dominant victory over Sparta Prague. Young goalscorer Clark had to be substituted in the second half due to an apparent ankle problem, causing slight concern for Klopp.
However, fears over the 19-year-old's injury have since been eased, and Klopp is confident about having Ryan Gravenberch available. Unfortunately, Ibrahima Konate is unlikely to recover in time from a thigh issue.
Several players remain sidelined for Liverpool, including Stefan Bajcetic (calf), Thiago Alcantara (muscle), Diogo Jota (knee), Ben Doak (knee), Joel Matip (knee), Alisson Becker (thigh), Curtis Jones (shin), and Trent Alexander-Arnold (knee). However, Mohamed Salah, who made history with his goal-scoring feat on Thursday, completed a full 90 minutes unharmed.
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
Manchester United possible starting lineup:Onana; Dalot, Varane, Maguire, Lindelof; Mainoo, Casemiro; Garnacho, Fernandes, Rashford; Hojlund
Liverpool possible starting lineup:
Kelleher; Bradley, Gomez, Van Dijk, Robertson; Mac Allister, Endo, Szoboszlai; Salah, Nunez, Diaz
EXPERT PREDICTION
Manchester United 1-2 Liverpool
Although Manchester United may see the return of some key players this weekend, their defense showed vulnerability against Everton, who failed to capitalize on numerous opportunities. However, Liverpool, under Klopp's guidance, are known for their clinical finishing, making them favorites to progress to the semi-finals.
