The Daily Star Ireland
Anfield hosts another chapter of English football’s most storied rivalry as Liverpool face Manchester United in the Premier League 2025/26. The Reds enter this clash second in the table, just one point behind leaders Arsenal, while United sit mid-table and searching for stability. With form, firepower, and pride on the line, this promises to be a high-intensity encounter under the lights.
Match Preview
Liverpool began the campaign in dominant fashion, winning their opening five league matches, including victories over Bournemouth (4–2), Newcastle (3–2), and Arsenal (1–0). However, recent results have slowed their momentum, with defeats to Crystal Palace (2–1), Chelsea (2–1), and a 1–0 loss to Galatasaray in the Champions League. Despite the dip, Jürgen Klopp’s side remain second in the standings, with their home record still among the strongest in England.
For Manchester United, inconsistency continues to define their season. Sitting tenth in the table, Rúben Amorim’s team have struggled to build momentum despite heavy summer spending. They’ve alternated between promising home wins — against Burnley (3–2), Chelsea (2–1), and Sunderland (2–0) — and poor away defeats to Manchester City (3–0) and Brentford (3–1). United’s attacking trio of Mbeumo, Mount, and Šeško impressed before the international break, but their defense remains leaky, especially without key players.
Liverpool’s pressing and tempo have been devastating at Anfield, while United’s fragile backline could struggle under constant pressure. Still, with both sides boasting elite attacking talent, this fixture rarely lacks drama.
Team Form & Recent Results
Liverpool (Last 5 Matches): W–W–L–L–L
- Goals Scored: 10
- Goals Conceded: 7
- Clean Sheets: 1
Manchester United (Last 5 Matches): W–L–W–L–W
- Goals Scored: 8
- Goals Conceded: 9
- Clean Sheets: 1
Liverpool’s strength lies at home — they’ve won six straight Premier League games at Anfield. United, by contrast, have struggled away, losing five consecutive league matches on the road and conceding 13 goals in that span.
Head-to-Head Record
Few rivalries in world football carry more intensity. Historically, Liverpool have dominated recent meetings at Anfield, while United’s last win there came over five years ago.
- Last 5 Meetings: Liverpool W3, Manchester United W1, D1
- Last Meeting: Manchester United 1–2 Liverpool
- At Anfield: Liverpool unbeaten in their last 6 vs United
Liverpool’s attacking efficiency and United’s vulnerability in transitions have shaped recent outcomes — most notably last season’s 3–0 Anfield victory for the Reds.
Lineups, Injuries & Team News
Liverpool (expected lineup):
Mamardashvili – Alexander-Arnold, Konaté*, Van Dijk, Robertson – Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, Wirtz – Salah, Gakpo, Ekitike
Injured: Alisson (knee), Leoni (muscle)
Doubtful: Konaté (fitness test)
Key Players:
- Mohamed Salah: 2 goals and 2 assists; Liverpool’s creative heartbeat.
- Cody Gakpo: Involved in 4 league goals; stretches defenses with movement.
- Florian Wirtz: Still adapting but offers vision and composure in tight areas.
Manchester United (expected lineup):
Lammens – Dalot, Maguire, Varane, Shaw – Casemiro, Fernandes – Mbeumo, Mount, Šeško – Cunha
Injured: Lisandro Martínez (foot), Mazraoui (knee)
Key Players:
- Bruno Fernandes: Captain and chief playmaker with 2 league goals.
- Benjamin Šeško: Form forward with pace and finishing ability.
- Bryan Mbeumo: Direct runner capable of stretching Liverpool’s backline.
Tactical Analysis & Key Battles
Liverpool will look to control possession and press high, pinning United back with overloads in midfield. Klopp’s 4-3-3 system thrives on quick transitions and wide combinations between Salah and Robertson, while Mac Allister anchors the central third.
United are expected to sit deeper and rely on counterattacks through Mount and Šeško. Amorim’s side can trouble Liverpool if they exploit spaces behind Alexander-Arnold, but sustained pressure could expose their backline’s lack of pace.
Key Tactical Duels:
- Salah vs Shaw: A battle of creativity vs containment.
- Fernandes vs Mac Allister: Control of central tempo and passing lanes.
- Šeško vs Van Dijk: Aerial and positional duel that could define United’s attack.
Odds, Markets & Betting Tips
1X2 Odds: Liverpool 1.50 | Draw 4.20 | Manchester United 6.50
Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Over 1.70 | Under 2.15
Both Teams to Score: Yes 1.85 | No 1.95
Smart Betting Angles:
- Liverpool to Win & Over 2.5 Goals (2.10): Their attacking power at Anfield remains unmatched.
- Salah to Score or Assist (1.70): The Egyptian has contributed in five of six home games.
- BTTS – Yes (1.85): United have scored in eight straight league fixtures despite poor away form.
Quick Facts (Featured Snippet):
- Venue: Anfield, Liverpool
- Kickoff: October 20, 2025 – 17:30 BST / 18:30 CET / 12:30 EST
- Competition: Premier League 2025/26 – Matchday 9
- Broadcast: Sky Sports Premier League / Peacock
Where to Watch Online & Kickoff Time
Live Broadcast: Sky Sports (UK), Peacock (US), FuboTV (Canada)
Kickoff: 17:30 BST / 12:30 EST / 18:30 CET
Prediction: Liverpool vs Manchester United, Premier League 2025/26
Liverpool’s relentless home form and attacking structure should overpower a United side still finding consistency. The visitors have weapons to threaten on the break, but Liverpool’s intensity and tactical cohesion make them clear favorites. Expect goals, drama, and a statement win for the Reds.
Final Prediction: Liverpool 3–1 Manchester United
Best Bet: Liverpool to Win & Over 2.5 Goals
Alternative Value: Mohamed Salah to Score Anytime
Liverpool’s quality in possession and pressing should prove decisive once again, with United likely undone by defensive lapses at Anfield.
