As the Premier League season heats up, one of football’s most iconic rivalries is set to take center stage once again: Liverpool vs Manchester United. Scheduled for January 5, 2025, with a 10:00 PM IST kick-off, this match promises to be an intense battle at a famed English venue. Despite some initial concerns regarding the extreme weather, FA has cleared that the match will go on.
Liverpool leads the league and comes off a stunning 5-0 triumph over West Ham. Under coach Arne Slot, the team is on a five-game unbeaten streak, showing play in both attack and defense. Meanwhile, Manchester United is struggling, ranking 14th in the league. They’ve lost four of their last five games, showing a lack of form and consistency under new coach Rúben Amorim. Liverpool’s sharp attack features Mohamed Salah, who has scored 17 goals this season
Liverpool vs Manchester United: Current Form
Liverpool
Liverpool is in sensational form. They’re sitting comfortably at the top of the league table, coming off a resounding 5-0 victory over West Ham. Under the guidance of coach Arne Slot, the Reds have gone unbeaten in their last five matches, showing impressive consistency both in attack and defence.
| Matches Played | Wins | Draws | Losses | Goals Scored | Goals Conceded |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Last 5 Matches | 5 | 3 | 2 | 19 | 9 |
Manchester United
Manchester United, on the other hand, is struggling. They currently find themselves in 14th place, with four losses in their last five games. Despite the arrival of new coach Rúben Amorim, United hasn’t been able to find their rhythm. Their lack of consistency is evident, especially when compared to their fierce rivals.
| Matches Played | Wins | Draws | Losses | Goals Scored | Goals Conceded |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Last 5 Matches | 1 | 0 | 4 | 4 | 11 |
Key Players to Watch
Liverpool
- Mohamed Salah: The Egyptian forward is in scintillating form, having scored 17 goals this season. His clinical finishing and leadership on the pitch have been pivotal for Liverpool.
- Virgil van Dijk: The Dutch defender anchors Liverpool’s backline with authority, ensuring stability in defense.
- Trent Alexander-Arnold & Andrew Robertson: These full-backs are vital to Liverpool’s attacking play, providing width and creativity.
Manchester United
- Bruno Fernandes: The Portuguese midfielder is key to United’s creativity. His vision and passing ability can unlock defenses.
- Lisandro Martínez & Matthijs de Ligt: United’s defensive duo will have their hands full trying to contain Liverpool’s potent attack.
Team News & Injuries
Liverpool
- Joel Matip: Out for the season with a cruciate ligament injury.
- Ibrahima Konaté and Conor Bradley: Both are doubtful due to injuries.
- Joe Gomez: Sidelined with a hamstring injury until early February.
Manchester United
- Luke Shaw: Hamstring injury, expected to return mid-January.
- Mason Mount: Out with a muscle injury until mid-January.
- Victor Lindelöf: Recovering from a concussion, expected back soon.
- Marcus Rashford: Suffering from illness but should be available for this match.
Tactics and Formation
Liverpool (4-3-3)
Liverpool is likely to stick with their trusted 4-3-3 formation. Expect Alisson in goal, with van Dijk and Jarell Quansah in central defense. The full-backs, Alexander-Arnold and Robertson, will provide width and creativity. The midfield trio of Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch, and Dominik Szoboszlai offers a balance between defense and attack. Salah, Luis Díaz, and Darwin Núnez will lead the frontline.
Manchester United (4-2-3-1)
United may opt for a 4-2-3-1 formation to balance their attack and defense. Rasmus Højlund is expected to spearhead the attack, with Fernandes operating just behind him. Manuel Ugarte and Kobbie Mainoo will provide defensive cover in midfield. In defense, Martínez and de Ligt will need to be at their best to stop Liverpool’s relentless attack.
Head-to-Head Record: Liverpool vs Manchester United
In recent encounters, Liverpool has had the upper hand in this rivalry. Their last league meeting ended in a commanding 3-0 victory for Liverpool at Old Trafford in September 2024. Out of the last five meetings, Liverpool has won twice, with three matches ending in draws. Salah has managed to 15 goals in just 16 games against Manchester United across all competitions. 21 goal involvements (15 goals + 6 assists) in 16 matches against United speaks for itself as the Egyptian maestro just loves the occassion whenever these two rivals meet.
| Date | Result |
|---|---|
| Sep 2024 | Liverpool 3-0 Manchester United |
| Aug 2024 | Liverpool 3-0 Manchester United |
| Apr 2024 | Manchester United 2-2 Liverpool |
| Mar 2024 | Manchester United 2-2 (ET: 2-1) Liverpool |
| Dec 2023 | Liverpool 0-0 Manchester United |
Liverpool vs Manchester United: Betting Odds and Predictions
Liverpool is the clear favorite heading into this match. Their current form and home advantage make them the likely winners.
| Outcome | Odds |
| Home Win (LIV) | 1.39 |
| Draw | 5.21 |
| Away Win (MNU) | 7.35 |
| Over 3.5 Goals | 2.11 |
| Both Teams to Score (No) | 2.14 |
Betting Tip
Given United’s struggles, the smart bet would be on Liverpool’s defensive strength. The suggested bet is “Both Teams to Score (No),” with odds at 2.14. With Liverpool’s reliable defense and United’s lack of goals, this bet looks promising.
Match Conditions and Weather
The match will be played in cold winter conditions, with temperatures around 1.15°C and moderate rain expected. These conditions may favor quick, on-the-ground play rather than aerial duels. Liverpool’s familiarity with the venue could give them an edge in adapting to the weather.
Final Thoughts
Liverpool enters this match as clear favorites, with their recent form and attacking prowess making them a formidable opponent. Manchester United will need a huge tactical shift to pose a serious challenge. Fans can expect a fiery encounter, but unless United drastically improves, this looks like another win for Liverpool.
Liverpool vs Manchester United Live Streaming
Fans in India can watch the Liverpool vs Manchester United action live on Star Sports Network. OTT users can tune in to Disney Plus for the coverage. The match begins at 10:00 PM IST.
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