Last time, Erik ten Hag's team came out on top with a 4-3 win, but Manchester United had a shocking defeat in their last game, ending with a surprising 3-4 scoreline against them. Flashback to March 17, when Amad Diallo scored a last-minute winner, sending Manchester United into the FA Cup finals and shattering Jurgen Klopp's hopes of adding more medals to his collection.
But just recently, Manchester United suffered a painful defeat against Chelsea, squandering a lead and losing in the 101st minute, setting a new unwanted Premier League record. It's a tough blow for Ten Hag, especially with Sir Jim Ratcliffe closely watching.
Manchester United, currently in sixth place, are facing an uphill battle to catch up in the league standings. Despite a strong start in February, their recent form has been shaky, with only one win in their last five league matches.
While FA Cup glory seems out of reach after their recent loss, Liverpool remains in control of their Premier League destiny, despite a somewhat challenging win against Sheffield United. They have a two-point lead over Arsenal and a three-point lead over Manchester City, but both rivals could overtake them with wins on Saturday.
Liverpool has been formidable on the road, with six of their last seven away league games resulting in victory. They have also been prolific in scoring goals, boasting the best record in Europe's top leagues in 2024. Despite a goalless draw against Manchester United earlier this season, Liverpool has a strong history of finding the net in Premier League encounters with their rivals, giving them hope for revenge in this upcoming match.
INJURIES & SUSPENSION
Thursday's outcome was painful for Manchester United, especially as Ten Hag's defensive problems deepened with injuries to Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans. Both center-backs had to be substituted, adding to the team's woes.Ten Hag couldn't confirm if Varane and Evans would be available for the weekend clash. However, 19-year-old Willy Kambwala might step in alongside Harry Maguire due to the absence of Victor Lindelof and Lisandro Martinez, who are sidelined with injuries.
Casemiro's withdrawal on Thursday adds to Manchester United's concerns, along with the continued absence of Tyrell Malacia, Luke Shaw, Anthony Martial, and Altay Bayindir due to various injuries.
Liverpool also has their own injury worries, with Wataru Endo missing their last game but potentially returning for the upcoming match. However, Joel Matip, Ben Doak, Stefan Bajcetic, and Thiago Alcantara remain sidelined, while Diogo Jota, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Alisson Becker are not yet ready to return.
Endo's comeback might see Ryan Gravenberch returning to the bench, and Alexis Mac Allister could have more freedom in an advanced role. Additionally, Andrew Robertson is expected to replace Joe Gomez on the left side of the defense as he returns to fitness.
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
Manchester United possible starting lineup:Onana; Wan-Bissaka, Maguire, Kambwala, Dalot; McTominay, Mainoo; Antony, Fernandes, Garnacho; Hojlund
Liverpool possible starting lineup:
Kelleher; Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Mac Allister, Endo, Szoboszlai; Salah, Nunez, Diaz
EXPERT PREDICTION
Manchester United 1-2 Liverpool
The mental impact of Thursday's defeat might still linger for Manchester United, and we shouldn't expect either team to keep a clean sheet. However, Liverpool could capitalize on United's weakened defense to maintain their lead in the title race under Klopp's guidance.
