This match marks the fifth time that these two coaches will face off, having previously met in the Dutch Eredivisie.
Their encounters were highly competitive: Slot’s Feyenoord defeated Ten Hag’s Ajax twice in the 2019-20 season, but Ajax turned the tables by winning both matches in the following season.
Now, as they manage teams in England’s top flight, their tactical battle is expected to be just as intriguing. This game will also make history as the first time since 2016 that two Dutch managers have faced each other in the Premier League. The last such instance occurred when Guus Hiddink’s Chelsea played against Ronald Koeman’s Southampton.
Manchester United’s season has been a mix of ups and downs so far. They won their opening match against Fulham but suffered a defeat against Brighton in their most recent game.
A victory over Liverpool could potentially turn their season around and provide the momentum needed for a successful campaign.
However, United has had a challenging time against Liverpool in recent years, managing only one win in their last 12 Premier League encounters.
Their sole victory was a 2-1 triumph at Old Trafford during the 2022-23 season. Liverpool, on the other hand, has been impressive, winning both of their opening games against Ipswich and Brentford and showing resilience in their recent away performances at Old Trafford.
In terms of team news, Manchester United might be without Mason Mount, who was substituted during the match against Brighton due to an injury.
Mount’s absence would be significant, considering his struggles with injuries last season. Other players, such as Rasmus Hojlund, Luke Shaw, and Leny Yoro, are also expected to be sidelined, while Joshua Zirkzee and Matthijs de Ligt could make their first starts.
Liverpool’s lineup is also facing some changes. Jarrell Quansah might miss out due to a minor issue, which would likely see Ibrahima Konate partner with Virgil van Dijk, who is set to make his 200th appearance for the Reds.
Despite these adjustments, Liverpool’s squad remains strong, with Diogo Jota and Luis Diaz expected to continue their roles, while Cody Gakpo and Darwin Nunez are poised to provide additional attacking options.
Notably, Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford has had a notable scoring record against Liverpool, with seven goals in ten appearances at Old Trafford.
Meanwhile, Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah is the top-scoring visiting player at Old Trafford in Premier League history, having scored six goals there.
Salah has also been prolific in recent away games against Manchester United, finding the net in each of his last six encounters with a total of nine goals.
In other news, Manchester United is close to signing Manuel Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain. Ugarte has been praised as an excellent fit for United and has even been compared to a Liverpool legend by South American football expert Tim Vickery. This transfer could add further depth to United’s squad as they aim to strengthen their position in the league.
