Liverpool Set to Deliver Another Blow to Troubled Manchester United

As Liverpool prepares to face Manchester United this Sunday at Anfield, the stakes couldn't be higher for the once-mighty Red Devils. Following a humiliating 3-0 defeat at Old Trafford back in September, United has been in freefall, languishing in 14th position and 23 points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool.

The reality for Manchester United has shifted dramatically; rather than aspiring for European football, they now find themselves glancing nervously at the clubs below them, some of which are gaining momentum and could draw United into a relegation battle. Ruben Amorim, the current manager, openly acknowledges the bleak situation surrounding England’s most successful club, which has not clinched the league title since 2013. In stark contrast, Liverpool is thriving and is on the verge of equaling their record of 20 league titles.

With a game in hand, Arne Slot’s Liverpool leads the league with 45 points, more than double Manchester United’s tally. "I think people are tired of excuses at this club. This club needs a shock," said Amorim, indicating the urgency for a turnaround amidst their struggles. He highlighted the difficulties inherent in big clubs during crises and the pressing need for a reset.

Liverpool the Clear Favorites

When it comes to form, Liverpool is in an extraordinary patch, with an unbeaten streak extending to 24 games across all competitions. Having lost only once this year and with United’s dismal record of just one victory in the last 13 league encounters against Liverpool, Slot’s side is heavily favored to dominate.

If successful, Slot could achieve a remarkable feat by becoming the first Liverpool manager in 88 years to secure a league double over Manchester United in his debut season. Amidst concerns regarding player contracts, including top scorer Mohamed Salah, captain Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold linked with moves to Real Madrid, Slot remains unfazed, focusing solely on performances on the pitch.

Salah, with outstanding stats of 17 goals and 13 assists for the season, is under the spotlight as he looks to further his legacy against United. Notably, he holds the Premier League record for the most goals (12) and assists (six) against the Red Devils. "Mo and the word extraordinary is something I've heard a lot in the last six months," Slot praised.

Other Premier League Highlights

As Liverpool and Manchester United prepare for their clash, the weekend's action kicks off with Tottenham Hotspur hosting high-flying Newcastle United, who have secured four consecutive wins to climb to fifth in the table. Meanwhile, Spurs find themselves in a precarious situation at 11th, struggling with player injuries and suspensions.

West Ham faces a daunting challenge as they travel to Manchester City, coming off a five-goal drubbing by Liverpool without their key player Jarrod Bowen due to injury. Chelsea is on the road to visit Crystal Palace, and Arsenal heads to the south coast to contest Brighton & Hove Albion, who are desperate to snap a seven-match winless streak.

As the weekend approaches, all eyes will be on Anfield, where Liverpool aims to assert their dominance over a beleaguered Manchester United—will the Reds extend their advantage, or can United muster a resistance? Only time will tell, but the drama promises to be unforgettable!