Arne Slot faces the daunting challenge of following in the footsteps of Jurgen Klopp, yet he has made a flawless beginning, securing a 100% record from his first three Premier League matches. This early success sees Liverpool standing shoulder to shoulder with Manchester City at the summit of the table. In stark contrast, Manchester United’s head coach Erik ten Hag finds himself under scrutiny just three games into the new season, with his side suffering back-to-back defeats.
Ten Hag, who narrowly avoided dismissal after an internal review at the conclusion of the previous season—where United recorded their worst-ever Premier League finish in eighth place—had hopes of a revival. His job was saved by an unexpected FA Cup final victory over Manchester City, a result that hinted at the possibility of a fresh start, particularly after the club invested £200 million in new signings during the transfer window.
However, the issues that plagued United last season were laid bare once again by a commanding Liverpool performance. The visitors exposed United’s vulnerabilities, highlighting the ongoing challenges Ten Hag faces in stabilizing his team.
“Mo Salah’s contributions in Liverpool’s last 23 goals against United: ⚽ Goals: 11 🅰 Assists: 6”
The match was particularly punishing for Casemiro, who became the scapegoat for United’s shortcomings. The Brazilian midfielder was directly responsible for both of Luis Diaz’s goals and was substituted at halftime, replaced by young prospect Toby Collyer.
Before the match, United unveiled their new £42 million acquisition, Manuel Ugarte, who they hope will bring much-needed stability to their midfield. In contrast, Liverpool did not pursue a defensive midfielder in the transfer market. Slot’s decision to reposition Ryan Gravenberch into that role has proven to be a masterstroke in the early stages of the season.
Despite Liverpool’s overall success during Klopp’s tenure, the German manager struggled to secure victories at Old Trafford, winning just two of his 11 away games against United. Last season, Liverpool failed to capitalize on their dominance at United’s home ground, losing a thrilling FA Cup quarter-final 4-3 and drawing 2-2 in the league, a result that effectively ended their title hopes.
This time, however, Liverpool were merciless, and they could easily have equaled their 5-0 record victory at Old Trafford from 2021. United appeared to have been granted an early reprieve when Trent Alexander-Arnold’s shot, which deflected off Diaz, was ruled out due to Mo Salah being in an offside position.
Casemiro, who showed glimpses of his former self in the early games of the season after a challenging previous year, had another difficult afternoon, raising concerns about his ability to compete at this level. His careless pass was intercepted by Gravenberch, who quickly passed to Salah. Salah’s delicate cross was then headed in by Diaz at the back post, giving Liverpool the lead.
Liverpool’s goalkeeper, Alisson Becker, was called into action soon after, making a crucial save to deny a powerful low shot from Noussair Mazraoui. However, United’s resistance crumbled once again as Diaz added a second goal just before halftime, capitalizing on a mistake by Casemiro.
Salah, as expected, found the back of the net against United, scoring his 15th goal in 16 encounters with the Red Devils, a record that includes at least one goal in each of his last seven appearances at Old Trafford. His spectacular finish from Dominik Szoboszlai’s pass added to United’s misery.
Salah had the opportunity to increase the scoreline further but missed a close-range shot, opting to go for goal rather than passing to his teammates who were in better positions. Liverpool’s defense, meanwhile, remained resolute, with another brilliant save from Alisson to deny Joshua Zirkzee, preserving Liverpool’s clean sheet under Slot’s management.
While Arsenal have been widely tipped as the team most likely to challenge Manchester City’s dominance after four consecutive league titles, Liverpool’s performances in the early weeks of the season have dispelled doubts about their capability to contend for the title, even in the absence of Klopp.
Liverpool’s Player Ratings: A Breakdown of the Performance Against Manchester United
Liverpool’s recent performance against Manchester United showcased a solid team effort, with both individual brilliance and collective strength on display. Here’s a closer look at how each player fared during the match:
Goalkeeper & Defence
Alisson Becker (7/10):
Alisson played a crucial role in maintaining Liverpool’s slim lead going into halftime, making an outstanding reaction save from Noussair Mazraoui’s attempt. His awareness and sharp reflexes were evident again in the second half as he successfully denied a couple of efforts from Joshua Zirkzee.
Trent Alexander-Arnold (7/10):
The England international had a relatively composed performance despite an early challenge from Marcus Rashford. Alexander-Arnold balanced his defensive duties with his well-known passing range and attacking prowess, contributing to Liverpool’s forward momentum.
Ibrahima Konate (9/10):
Konate delivered a standout performance characterized by his speed, strength, and tactical intelligence. The French defender handled all threats with ease, solidifying his claim for a regular spot in the starting lineup.
Virgil van Dijk (8/10):
Van Dijk, a seasoned presence at the back, had little trouble dealing with United’s forward Joshua Zirkzee. The Dutchman also made several timely interceptions and clearances, reinforcing his critical role in the defence.
Andrew Robertson (7/10):
Robertson engaged in several intense duels with Alejandro Garnacho, where the Scottish left-back often came out on top. His tenacity and defensive reliability were on full display throughout these encounters.
Midfield
Ryan Gravenberch (8/10):
Gravenberch continues to impress in his role as a deep-lying midfielder. The Dutch player orchestrated several driving runs from deep within his own half, contributing to Liverpool’s attacking efforts and demonstrating his growing confidence in this position.
Alexis Mac Allister (7/10):
Mac Allister played a key part in Liverpool’s control of the midfield. The Argentine midfielder engaged in the physical battle, contributing crucially to the team’s overall dominance and willingness to do the hard work required to win the game.
Dominik Szoboszlai (7/10):
While Szoboszlai might not have been the most influential midfielder on the pitch, he was effective in keeping Liverpool’s midfield in rhythm. His assist for Salah’s goal was a highlight, although he missed an opportunity late in the game to extend the lead further.
Attack
Mohamed Salah (9/10):
Salah was instrumental despite a quiet first half in terms of goal-scoring opportunities. His exceptional touch and vision led to two assists for Luis Diaz. Salah eventually found the back of the net with a superb finish, rounding off an impressive all-around performance from the Egyptian forward.
Diogo Jota (7/10):
Jota’s movement and direct play added another dimension to Liverpool’s attack. His ability to link up with his fellow forwards made him a constant threat, even if he didn’t get on the scoresheet himself.
Luis Diaz (9/10):
Despite a few early missteps, Diaz was lethal in front of goal, scoring twice in the match. His second goal was a testament to his quality, as he orchestrated and finished the move himself. Liverpool fans will be relieved that the club managed to retain his services during the transfer window.
Liverpool’s overall performance against Manchester United was a strong statement of their capabilities, with several players stepping up to deliver when it mattered most. The mix of defensive solidity, midfield control, and attacking brilliance suggests that Liverpool is well-positioned to compete at the highest level this season.
