The wait is over. The team sheets are in at Old Trafford for this massive Sunday showdown, and the news is a mixed bag for both sides. While Manchester United welcome back a key creative spark, Liverpool are reeling from a fresh injury blow to their star striker that leaves Arne Slot scrambling.
Confirmed Lineups
Manchester United XI (4-2-3-1):
Lammens; Dalot, Heaven, Maguire, Shaw; Casemiro, Mainoo; Mbeumo, Fernandes, Cunha; Sesko.
• Bench: Bayindir, Dorgu, Malacia, Mazraoui, Yoro, Mount, Ugarte, Diallo, Zirkzee.
Liverpool XI (4-2-3-1):
Woodman; Jones, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Frimpong, Szoboszlai, Wirtz; Gakpo.
• Bench: Pecsi, Gomez, Kerkez, Chiesa, Nyoni, Morrison, Ngumoha, Ndiaye, Wright.
Key Team News & Analysis
The big headline for United is the return of Matheus Cunha. After missing the win against Brentford, his inclusion is a massive boost for Michael Carrick. He starts in that fluid attacking trio behind Sesko, with Amad Diallo dropping to the bench despite his recent form. At the back, young Ayden Heaven keeps his place alongside Harry Maguire, a huge vote of confidence for the academy graduate in a game of this magnitude.
Liverpool, meanwhile, are in the middle of a genuine availability crisis. The late rumors were true: Alexander Isak is out with a groin strain. With Mohamed Salah and Hugo Ekitike also sidelined, Cody Gakpo is tasked with leading the line. Perhaps more concerning for the visitors is the absence of Alisson Becker and Giorgi Mamardashvili, leaving Freddie Woodman to start in goal at Old Trafford. Interestingly, Curtis Jones looks set to fill in at right-back to allow Jeremie Frimpong to push into a more advanced wing role.
Late Prediction: The Red Devils to Feast?
Looking at these lineups, the advantage has swung firmly toward the home side.
United look settled and have their most dangerous ball-carrier in Cunha back on the pitch. They will likely target Liverpool’s makeshift right side and test Woodman early. Liverpool still possess immense quality in midfield with Mac Allister and Wirtz, but without a recognized clinical finisher like Isak or Salah, they might struggle to convert their chances.
Expect a high-intensity start from United. If Fernandes and Mainoo can control the tempo, they should have too much for a Liverpool defense that might feel exposed without their first-choice keepers.
Final Score Prediction: Manchester United 3-1 Liverpool
