The Premier League’s fiercest rivalry reignites this Sunday as Liverpool host Manchester United at Anfield. With Liverpool vs Manchester United predicted lineups taking center stage, this clash promises high drama and tactical intrigue. Liverpool, flying high at the top of the table, face a struggling United side desperate to salvage their faltering campaign.
Liverpool 🆚 Manchester United
— Match Spoots (@matchspoots) January 3, 2025
🗓️ Sunday, 05 January, 2025
⏰ GMT – 16:30 PM
🏆 Premier League – Round 20
🏟️ Anfield Stadium Stadium, Liverpool, England#Liverpool | #PremierLeague | #Manchesterunited | #matchday | #england | #bigmatch | #football #livmun #mufc #lfc pic.twitter.com/qwNu8h8ns0
Liverpool’s Predicted Lineup
Arne Slot’s Liverpool are in scintillating form, unbeaten in 23 matches and riding a four-game winning streak. Despite defensive injuries, the Reds have depth and quality to field a strong XI.
- Goalkeeper: Alisson
- Defenders: Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jarell Quansah, Virgil van Dijk, Andy Robertson
- Midfielders: Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai
- Forwards: Mohamed Salah, Cody Gakpo, Luis Diaz
Joe Gomez’s hamstring injury is a blow, but Quansah is expected to step in alongside Van Dijk. Szoboszlai returns from suspension, adding creativity to the midfield. Salah, with 17 goals and 13 assists this season, remains Liverpool’s talisman.
Manchester United’s Predicted Lineup
Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United are in disarray, languishing in 14th place and just seven points above the relegation zone. Injuries and poor form have plagued the Red Devils, but key returns could provide a glimmer of hope.
- Goalkeeper: Andre Onana
- Defenders: Noussair Mazraoui, Matthijs de Ligt, Lisandro Martinez, Diogo Dalot
- Midfielders: Kobbie Mainoo, Manuel Ugarte, Bruno Fernandes
- Forwards: Amad Diallo, Rasmus Hojlund
Bruno Fernandes and Ugarte return from suspension, offering much-needed quality in midfield. However, the absence of Luke Shaw and Victor Lindelof weakens the defense. Hojlund will lead the line, hoping to end United’s three-game goal drought.
Key Battles to Watch
- Salah vs United’s Defense: Salah’s record against United is formidable, with 12 goals and 6 assists in the Premier League. United’s shaky backline will have their hands full.
- Midfield Control: Liverpool’s Gravenberch and Mac Allister will look to dominate against United’s Mainoo and Ugarte. The midfield battle could decide the game’s tempo.
- Anfield Atmosphere: United’s recent struggles at Anfield, with no goals in their last five visits, add psychological pressure. Liverpool’s home advantage could be decisive.
Prediction and Final Thoughts
Liverpool are clear favorites, given their form and United’s struggles. A 3-0 victory for the Reds seems likely, with Salah expected to shine. However, United’s history of pulling off shock results means they cannot be entirely written off.
This match is more than just a game; it’s a chance for Liverpool to solidify their title credentials and for United to reignite their season. With Liverpool vs Manchester United predicted lineups set, all eyes will be on Anfield for what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
