Liverpool vs Manchester United: Here Are 3 Key Battles To Watch Out For In This Intense Derby Clash

Liverpool vs Manchester United – 3 Key Battles To Watch Out For

Tomorrow is just another day for a lot of people but for Liverpool and Manchester United fans, it is a day of war. When these two arch-rivals – both clubs with rich histories, legendary players and millions of passionate fans – collide, fireworks are expected. On one side, you have the Red Devils who have a stunning unbeaten away record so far, while on the other, there’s the Merseysiders, who boast of having an unbeaten home record.

When both teams line up at Anfield tomorrow, the game will be an intense one for sure. In fact, it is quite tough to even predict which team will outplay the other. With that being said, let’s take a look at three of the key battles that are likely to take place on the field tomorrow.

Joel Matip vs Romelu Lukaku

If Lukaku has been praised time and again for his electric performances, Matip has only been criticised by a lot of Liverpool’s critics and fans. It could prove to be tough for the home side to find success against Lukaku’s fiery form, especially since Liverpool’s defensive woes continue.

So far, Matip has been the only regular starter in Liverpool’s defence. His performances have been a bit shaky but he is particularly skilled at getting the best out of one-on-one situations. Another one of Matip’s strengths is his ability to premeditate attacking movement. It remains to be seen if that would be enough to contain Lukaku though.

The Belgian has been in rampant form since moving to Old Trafford this summer – he has gone on to establish himself as the division’s top scorer with 7 goals, and he will be keen to add to his tally tomorrow.

Philippe Coutinho vs Nemanja Matic

After a period of uncertainty over his future, Philippe Coutinho is now back to his best. The Brazilian has been excellent since his return from injury, and will be all the more crucial for Liverpool in Sadio Mane’s absence. For most of last season, Coutinho thrived in Mane’s current position, and he is likely to fill the void when they face Manchester United.

Moreover, the Brazilian will be responsible for providing a creative edge to Liverpool’s attack. This is where Nemanja Matic will come into play. Ever since his move from Chelsea, Matic has proven to be an influential figure as United’s defensive midfielder. It will be his mission to suppress the threats posed by Coutinho, in order to help maintain United’s record of conceding just two goals in the top flight so far.

Mohamed Salah vs Ashley Young/United’s left-back

With Mane out injured, there will be increased pressure on Salah to perform better. The player will be on a high after his recent historic goals for Egypt but he still needs to work on his finishing. He has already scored 4 league goals, while also providing 2 assists this term, and will be looking to increase his numbers against United.

The Egyptian is likely to target the United’s left-back area. Due to the lack of recognised options, winger Ashley Young has been used as a makeshift left-back. The player has adjusted to being deployed there but it will be quite a challenge to neutralise the threat posed by Liverpool’s attack. Matteo Darmian and Daley Blind have also played at left-back a couple of times, so it depends on who Jose Mourinho decides to go with on Saturday.