The predicted line-up and where to watch as the North West giants clash at Old Trafford
Manchester United and Liverpool have 40 top flight titles between them but the two most successful teams in English football are not competing for top honors this season.
Instead, it’s a battle for third place while ensuring they play Champions League football next season.
That doesn’t mean the level of play has dropped by any means, according to United interim manager Michael Carrick.
He said: “It’s definitely been my favorite sport, without a doubt.
“It is clear that there are big games and competitions that we have with other teams, but this one is really true because of the history, the ups and downs that have come before, the fun and the emotions. All those things make it a special game.
“When I think about this game, the first thing that comes to mind is the spirit of competition, regardless of the league positions over the years. Things like that have never changed the emotions of the players and fans. I am also very grateful for what it means to them.”
That view was echoed by his Liverpool teammate, Arne Slot, who said: “We know it’s a big game.
“We wanted to win the league – that wasn’t going to happen – so we’re trying to finish at the top.
“Winning [which could secure a top-five finish] it is the right step forward. It is an important step, not a step backwards.”
United start the weekend in third place, three points ahead of Liverpool but a win for the Slot club will see them leapfrog their North West rivals.
It will be a big summer for both clubs as they try to close the gap on two powerful teams: Arsenal and Manchester City.
United must decide whether Carrick will be the one to replace Ruben Amorim and the Merseysiders will have to replace Andy Robertson and Mohamed Salah.
Manchester United v Liverpool team news
United hope that Matheus Cunha will be fit but he may have to settle on the bench. Luke Shaw is likely to play despite coming off with a minor injury against Brentford. Matthijs de Ligt is not ready to return while Lisandro Martinez is suspended.
Liverpool will wait until the last minute to see if goalkeeper Alisson can play. Otherwise third choice Freddie Woodman will continue between the sticks. Salah is not playing because of a hamstring injury.
The prediction is Manchester United v Liverpool
Manchester United: Lammens; Dalot, Maguire, Heaven, Shaw; Casemiro, Mainoo, Mbeumo, Fernandes, Diallo; Sesko
Liverpool: Woodman; Gomez, Van Dijk, Konate, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister, Wirtz, Szoboszlai, Gakpo; Isaac
Where to watch Manchester United v Liverpool: TV and online streaming
Manchester United and Liverpool kick off at 3.30pm UK time on Sunday afternoon. You can watch it on Sky Sports or stream it with the Sky Go app.
If you’re watching from outside the UK, click HERE for details of channels showing the game in your area.
Manchester United v Liverpool statistics
- Liverpool have won their last five visits to Old Trafford in the league, as many as 18 of their last.
- Only in their opening five games of the campaign have Liverpool enjoyed a longer run in the Premier League than their three victories.
- Alexander Isak’s next Premier League appearance will be his 100th in the competition. He is looking to score in successive away games for Liverpool for the first time
Manchester United v Liverpool prediction
It’s been a disappointing season for Liverpool but at least they can claim bragging rights over their North West rivals with a win on Sunday.
We think the Merseysider is of high quality and we love finishing it.
Prediction: Manchester United 1-2 Liverpool
