Sunday’s Premier League encounter at Anfield takes center stage in our Liverpool vs Man Utd prediction and preview. Can the Reds bounce back from three straight defeats, or will United capitalize on their rivals’ vulnerability?
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Liverpool vs Man United: Preview
Is this the best or worst time for Manchester United to be facing Liverpool? This question encapsulates the fascinating dynamics surrounding Sunday’s encounter at Anfield, where contrasting narratives of crisis and opportunity collide in English football’s most storied rivalry.
On the surface, Liverpool appear vulnerable. The defending Premier League champions have lost their last three matches across all competitions – a sequence representing the first time in Arne Slot’s managerial career that he has suffered such a fate. Morale may be fragile for the Reds, their confidence brittle after disappointing defeats to Crystal Palace, Galatasaray, and Chelsea.
However, closer examination reveals a crucial pattern that should concern Manchester United. All three defeats occurred away from home, while Liverpool have maintained a perfect record at Anfield in 2025-26 with five wins from five matches in all competitions. This fortress mentality suggests the Reds will be desperate to end their losing run with an emphatic home performance.
Manchester United’s wretched away form provides additional cause for Liverpool optimism. Ruben Amorim’s side are winless in their last eight Premier League away games (D2 L6) since beating Leicester City 3-0 in March. Their last victory on the road against a team currently in the top flight came in January at Fulham, highlighting their struggles away from Old Trafford.
The historical context makes United’s task even more daunting. The Red Devils last went longer without an away league win in September 1989 under Alex Ferguson – an 11-match winless streak that represents one of the legendary manager’s rare early struggles. The current eight-game run without victory threatens to surpass that unwanted record.
United face an even more remarkable historical barrier should they seek three points at Anfield. While they defeated reigning Premier League champions Manchester City 2-1 away last season, they haven’t beaten the defending English champions away from home in back-to-back league seasons since 1906-07 and 1907-08. This 117-year drought illustrates the magnitude of the challenge facing Amorim’s team.
The weight of Premier League-era history adds further pressure. Only two managers – Manuel Pellegrini and Antonio Conte – have won their first two away matches against reigning champions in the competition’s history. Amorim would become just the third to achieve this feat, representing a serious weight of expectation to overcome.
Manchester United can at least approach this fixture with a relatively healthy squad, with only Noussair Mazraoui and Lisandro Martínez confirmed as unavailable. This selection depth provides Amorim with tactical options that have been absent during previous challenging away fixtures.
One intriguing statistical quirk offers United hope: only Arsenal (56) and Newcastle (62) have faced fewer shots than United (64) in the Premier League this season. Liverpool managed just nine and five goal attempts respectively against those two defensively organized sides, suggesting the Reds may struggle to create clear-cut chances on Sunday.
However, this defensive statistic masks a more concerning underlying reality. United possess the fourth-highest expected goals against figure in the division (10.1), while their average xG per shot faced of 0.16 is the highest of any Premier League side in 2025-26. This reveals that while United limit shot quantity, they consistently concede high-quality chances that opponents frequently convert.
This vulnerability could provide the platform for Florian Wirtz to finally open his Premier League account. The Germany international has drawn a blank despite recording nine shots and creating 11 chances – his combined total of 20 is the most of any player yet to score or assist in the competition this term. The quality of chances United concede suggests Wirtz’s wait may finally end at Anfield.
Mohamed Salah’s involvement could prove decisive in breaking United’s resistance. The Egyptian possesses more goals (13) and goal involvements (19) against Manchester United than any other player in Premier League history. Only five players have recorded 20+ goal involvements against a single opponent: Les Ferdinand (20 vs Everton), Alan Shearer (21 vs Everton and 21 vs Leeds), Frank Lampard (21 vs Bolton), Harry Kane (22 vs Leicester), and Wayne Rooney (23 vs Newcastle). Salah stands on the brink of joining this exclusive club.
If Salah rediscovers his clinical edge against his favorite opponents, Liverpool’s recent struggles would quickly fade into history. His two goals for Egypt during the international break suggest his form may be returning at the perfect moment for the Reds.
A defeat here would represent historic failure for Liverpool, as they would suffer three consecutive Premier League defeats for the first time since February 2021, when they lost four straight matches. However, those defeats occurred behind closed doors during the pandemic. With Anfield’s powerful backing restored, the Reds possess a significant psychological advantage that United will struggle to overcome.
Liverpool vs Man United: Head-to-Head
The recent historical record between these fierce rivals reveals Liverpool’s clear psychological advantage, with the Reds having dominated this fixture throughout the modern era. Liverpool have lost just one of their last 14 Premier League meetings with Manchester United, recording seven victories alongside six draws.
United’s solitary triumph during this extended period came at Old Trafford in August 2022, when they secured a 2-1 victory that briefly suggested a power shift in this historic rivalry. However, that win has proven to be an anomaly rather than a trend, with Liverpool quickly reasserting their dominance in subsequent encounters.
The statistical significance of Liverpool’s supremacy becomes even more striking when viewed across a longer timeframe. Since the start of the 2018-19 season, Liverpool’s single defeat represents the fewest losses any side has suffered against Manchester United in the Premier League (minimum three meetings). This dominance reflects the contrasting trajectories of both clubs during recent years.
Manchester United’s misery at Anfield stretches back even further, creating a psychological barrier that current players must overcome. Their last victory at Liverpool’s fortress occurred in the first meeting of the Jürgen Klopp era, when Wayne Rooney’s late goal secured a 1-0 triumph in January 2016. Nearly a decade has passed since United last tasted victory on Merseyside.
Unless United can secure three points on Sunday, Liverpool will achieve a remarkable milestone by becoming just the second side to avoid defeat to United in 10 successive Premier League home games. Chelsea previously accomplished this feat between 2002 and 2012, a period when they established themselves among England’s elite clubs.
This extended home dominance reflects both Liverpool’s excellence at Anfield and Manchester United’s struggles in hostile environments. The psychological weight of this record affects team selection, tactical approaches, and in-game decision-making, creating a self-fulfilling prophecy that United must overcome through exceptional performance.
Liverpool vs Man United: Team News and Predicted Lineup
Liverpool – Team News
Arne Slot approaches this crucial rivalry fixture with encouraging news regarding key players’ availability following the international break. Ryan Gravenberch should be fully available after being substituted at half-time during Netherlands’ victory over Finland as a precautionary measure due to a hamstring complaint.
Ibrahima Konaté’s fitness represents an even more significant boost for Liverpool’s defensive stability. The French center-back, one of just three senior center-backs at Slot’s disposal, was forced off during the 2-1 defeat to Chelsea two weeks ago with a thigh problem that required him to leave the international camp early.
Slot revealed during Friday’s press conference that Gravenberch is “completely fit” while Konaté was “expected to train” that day, suggesting both players should be available for selection against United. These returns address critical positions where Liverpool have lacked depth during recent struggles.
However, Alisson Becker’s continued absence represents a significant concern for Liverpool’s defensive organization. The Brazilian goalkeeper will miss at least “this weekend and next week” according to Slot, as he continues rehabilitating his hamstring injury without resuming training.
Alisson’s absence means Giorgi Mamardashvili will continue deputizing after making his Premier League debut before the international break. The Georgian’s performance will be crucial in maintaining defensive stability against United’s counter-attacking threats.
The full-back positions present interesting selection dilemmas for Slot. Milos Kerkez should retain his left-back position following several tired appearances from Andy Robertson, while the right-back selection represents a more complex decision.
Jeremie Frimpong arrived for significant investment during the summer but has managed only one Premier League start, with Conor Bradley and even Dominik Szoboszlai often preferred in that position. However, Frimpong’s restful international break could provide the opportunity to start afresh, allowing Szoboszlai to move back into his natural midfield role alongside Gravenberch.
Florian Wirtz should occupy the central attacking midfield position, potentially at the expense of Alexis Mac Allister. This tactical adjustment would provide additional creativity and goal threat against United’s organized defensive structure.
Mohamed Salah remains an automatic selection on the right wing, despite his uncharacteristically slow start to the season. His two goals for Egypt during the international break suggest his form may be returning, while his remarkable record against United (13 goals and six assists in 15 appearances) makes him indispensable for this fixture.
Cody Gakpo presents a selection dilemma after his impressive international performances, including involvement in four goals for Netherlands. The Dutch forward scored Liverpool’s only goal against Chelsea and may feel aggrieved if benched, though Slot could prioritize experimenting with a front line featuring Hugo Ekitiké and Alexander Isak.
Liverpool – Predicted XI (4-3-3)
- Goalkeeper: Mamardashvili
- Defenders: Frimpong, Konaté, Van Dijk, Kerkez
- Midfielders: Szoboszlai, Gravenberch, Wirtz
- Forwards: Salah, Isak, Ekitiké
Manchester United – Team News
Ruben Amorim approaches this daunting Anfield assignment with relatively positive injury news, though significant absentees continue to limit his tactical options. Senne Lammens appears set to retain his goalkeeping position after an impressive debut against Sunderland before the international break.
The Belgian’s £18.2 million Deadline Day arrival from Royal Antwerp was rewarded with his first appearance in English football, where he produced a commanding performance and kept a clean sheet in United’s 2-0 victory. His assured display prompted impressed supporters to chant “Are you Schmeichel in disguise?” – high praise that reflects the impact of his debut.
Amorim addressed the praise during Friday’s pre-match press conference, stating: “Nothing is impossible, you have to prove you can start every week. It is possible he can play. He is not Schmeichel yet, he is a young guy with talent and the fans liked it.” This measured response suggests Lammens has done enough to retain his place ahead of Altay Bayındir.
Lisandro Martínez’s continued absence represents a significant defensive loss, though the Argentine should resume full training soon. His combative style and leadership qualities would be valuable assets against Liverpool’s fluid attacking movement.
Noussair Mazraoui’s availability remains uncertain following an unspecified knock, while young defender Ayden Heaven was forced off while representing England’s Under-20s last week. These defensive concerns limit Amorim’s tactical flexibility in a match where organization will be crucial.
The international break created additional selection considerations, with Casemiro and Matheus Cunha requiring assessment after Brazil’s Tuesday fixture against Japan. Several United internationals received an extra day’s recovery on Thursday, including captain Bruno Fernandes and Amad Diallo, though both are expected to be ready for Sunday’s encounter.
Amorim provided detailed injury updates during his press conference: “Licha [Martinez] is near, but almost returning to the trainings with the team. Mazraoui, I don’t know. The rest of the guys, the national team [players], they are ready. But, if you saw the games, some players play in Japan, so we need to be careful, to give more time.”
He continued: “Diogo [Dalot] didn’t play the last game [with Portugal], he was here [yesterday]. Bruno played 62 minutes, we gave [him] one more day [to recover]. We try to balance everything to have everyone ready. But they are ready, the guys are returning from national teams. They are ready to play.”
These comments suggest Amorim is carefully managing his squad’s physical condition while ensuring maximum availability for this crucial fixture. The balance between rest and preparation could prove decisive in United’s ability to compete across 90 minutes at Anfield.
Manchester United – Predicted XI (3-4-3)
- Goalkeeper: Lammens
- Defenders: Yoro, de Ligt, Shaw
- Midfielders: Dalot, Ugarte, Fernandes, Dorgu
- Forwards: Mbeumo, Sesko, Amad
Liverpool vs Man United: Prediction
This encounter represents a fascinating intersection of vulnerability and opportunity, with Liverpool’s recent struggles colliding with Manchester United’s historically poor away record. The outcome will likely depend on which team can overcome their psychological barriers more effectively.
Liverpool’s three-match losing streak creates genuine uncertainty about their ability to immediately return to winning ways, particularly given the quality of opposition they have struggled against. However, the crucial detail remains that all three defeats occurred away from home, while Anfield has remained an impregnable fortress throughout this difficult period.
Amorim and Manchester United are yet to prove themselves against elite opposition this season. Their three Premier League victories have come against newly promoted sides Burnley and Sunderland, plus Chelsea, who played with ten men from the fifth minute. This lack of evidence regarding their capabilities against top-tier opponents raises significant questions about their readiness for Anfield’s intensity.
One would expect United to struggle against the defending Premier League champions, but the case may not be as straightforward as it appears. With Liverpool reeling from three consecutive defeats, the timing presents an opportunity for United to strike while their rivals are vulnerable. Whether they possess the quality and mental fortitude to seize this opportunity remains uncertain.
However, Slot has benefited from a fortnight’s preparation to address Liverpool’s recent wobbles. This extended break provides time for tactical adjustments, physical recovery, and psychological reset that could prove decisive. The Dutch coach’s meticulous approach suggests Liverpool will be well-prepared to end their losing streak emphatically.
Liverpool’s perfect home record this season (five wins from five) contrasts sharply with United’s eight-match winless away streak, creating a compelling statistical narrative. The fortress mentality at Anfield, combined with the passionate home support, provides Liverpool with advantages that United will struggle to overcome.
Mohamed Salah’s remarkable record against United (19 goal involvements) offers Liverpool a proven match-winner who consistently delivers in this fixture. His recent international goals suggest his form is returning at the perfect moment, while Florian Wirtz’s search for his first Premier League goal involvement could finally end against United’s vulnerable defense.
Manchester United’s defensive statistics reveal a team that limits shot quantity but consistently concedes high-quality chances. This vulnerability plays directly into Liverpool’s strengths, as the Reds possess multiple players capable of converting half-chances into goals when provided space and time.
The psychological weight of history favors Liverpool, with United’s nine-year wait for an Anfield victory creating a mental barrier that affects confidence and decision-making. Breaking such an extended losing streak at a hostile venue requires exceptional character and quality that current United players have yet to demonstrate consistently.
Prediction: Liverpool 2–1 Man United
When and Where to Watch Liverpool vs Man United in India? Broadcast and Streaming Details
Indian football fans can catch the Liverpool vs Manchester United Premier League clash live on Sunday, October 19, 2025, with kick-off scheduled for 9:00 PM IST at Anfield in Liverpool. The match will be telecast on multiple Star Sports Network channels including Star Sports Select 1, Star Sports Select 1 HD, Star Sports Select 2, and Star Sports Select 2 HD.
For digital streaming, JioHotstar will provide live coverage of the fixture, though viewers will need a premium subscription to access the content. This Premier League broadcast arrangement differs from Champions League matches, which are shown on Sony Sports Network and Sony LIV.
This historic rivalry fixture between England’s two most successful clubs promises to be an emotionally charged encounter, making it essential viewing for Indian football enthusiasts who can enjoy comprehensive coverage across Star Sports’ multi-platform approach. The match represents a crucial moment in both teams’ seasons, with Liverpool seeking to end their three-match losing streak while United aim to break their dismal away record.
Read More: Salah’s Scoring Struggles: Why is Liverpool’s Egyptian King Struggling with his Midas Touch
FAQs
When and where is the Liverpool vs Man United match?
The Premier League fixture takes place on Sunday, October 19, 2025, 2025, at 9:00 PM IST at Anfield in Liverpool, England.
How can Indian fans watch the match?
Live coverage is available on Star Sports Select channels and streaming on JioHotstar with premium subscriptions.
What’s Liverpool’s recent home record?
Liverpool have won all five matches at Anfield in 2025-26 across all competitions, though they’ve lost their last three away games.
Which key players are injured for both teams?
Liverpool are without Alisson Becker (hamstring), while Manchester United miss Lisandro Martínez with Noussair Mazraoui doubtful. Ryan Gravenberch and Ibrahima Konaté are expected to be fit for Liverpool.
What records are at stake in this fixture?
Mohamed Salah needs one more goal involvement to join an exclusive club with 20+ involvements against a single opponent. Liverpool can become just the second side to go 10 home Premier League games unbeaten against United. United haven’t won away to defending champions in back-to-back seasons since 1906-08.
