Old Trafford is set to host one of the most anticipated fixtures in English football as Manchester United and Liverpool square off in a pivotal Premier League clash for Matchweek 35. With both teams vying for a coveted Champions League spot, the stakes could hardly be higher. United, sitting third with 61 points from 34 games, need just a single point to guarantee their place in next season’s elite European competition, a scenario made possible by Brighton’s 2-1 defeat to Newcastle United just a day prior. Liverpool, currently fourth on 58 points, can close the gap significantly with a win, ratcheting up the pressure as the season nears its dramatic conclusion.
This rivalry, steeped in history and passion, rarely disappoints. The last meeting between these two giants saw Manchester United snatch a 2-1 victory at Anfield back in October 2025, thanks to goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Harry Maguire. That result not only tilted the recent head-to-head in United’s favor—two wins to Liverpool’s one in the last five encounters—but also set the tone for a fiercely competitive campaign. However, the last time they met at Old Trafford in the league, Liverpool walked away with a comprehensive 3-0 win, Luis Diaz netting twice and Mohamed Salah adding another. The pendulum swings quickly in this rivalry!
Both sides enter Sunday’s showdown in fine form. Manchester United have responded admirably to a recent blip, stringing together back-to-back wins—first edging Chelsea 1-0, then overcoming Brentford 2-1 with goals from Casemiro and Benjamin Sesko. Liverpool, meanwhile, dispatched Crystal Palace 3-1 in their last outing, continuing their own resurgence after a tough Champions League exit at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain. The two teams’ recent results underscore just how closely matched they are, and the table reflects that parity.
Manchester United’s improvement since Michael Carrick took the reins as interim coach has been nothing short of remarkable. The Red Devils have amassed 29 points during his tenure—more than any other Premier League team in that span—and have tallied 36 points at home this season, a full dozen more than their total at Old Trafford last year. Carrick’s men have also scored in 23 straight matches across all competitions, finding the net at least twice in six of their last seven home fixtures. That attacking consistency, combined with a formidable home record, has Old Trafford buzzing with optimism.
Bruno Fernandes, United’s creative lynchpin and a strong candidate for PFA Player of the Year, is on the brink of history. After setting up Benjamin Sesko’s winner against Brentford, Fernandes stands just one assist away from equaling the Premier League single-season record of 20, a mark jointly held by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne. With four matches left and seven assists in his last seven games, Fernandes is well-placed to break that record. He’s been directly involved in 28 goals across all competitions this season and has failed to register a goal or assist in only 11 league games—nine of those coming last year. According to betting experts, Fernandes is the most likely player to score or assist this weekend.
Injuries, as ever, loom large over both squads. Manchester United’s defensive options are stretched, with Luke Shaw joining the injury list after the Brentford win. However, Leny Yoro and Patrick Dorgu have returned to the squad, and there’s optimism that Matheus Cunha—absent last week due to a minor hip issue—will be fit to feature. Matthijs de Ligt (back injury) and Lisandro Martinez (suspended) remain unavailable. Liverpool face their own selection headaches: star goalkeeper Alisson Becker could return after an injury layoff, but talisman Mohamed Salah is a doubt after picking up a knock against Crystal Palace. The Reds are also missing Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitike, Wataru Endo, Stefan Bajcetic, Giovanni Leoni, Conor Bradley, and Giorgi Mamardashvili.
Expected lineups reflect both the depth and the challenges facing these managers. United’s probable starters include Senne Lammens in goal; Diogo Dalot, Ayden Heaven, Harry Maguire, and possibly Luke Shaw in defense; Kobbie Mainoo and Casemiro anchoring midfield alongside Fernandes; and a front line of Amad Diallo, Benjamin Sesko, and Bryan Mbeumo. Liverpool are likely to field Alisson; Andy Robertson, Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, and Curtis Jones at the back; Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch, and Dominik Szoboszlai in midfield; and an attacking trio of Florian Wirtz, Cody Gakpo, and Jeremie Frimpong. Some sources suggest Alexander Isak could be involved if fit.
Fans and pundits alike are expecting fireworks. Recent history suggests goals are all but guaranteed—over 2.5 goals have been scored in each of their last five meetings, and both teams have found the net in seven of their last twelve clashes. This season, 62% of both clubs’ games have featured at least three goals, and United lead the league with a staggering 74% of their matches seeing both teams score. The bookmakers are backing a high-scoring affair, with many tipping a draw as the most likely outcome.
Michael Carrick’s future as permanent manager could hinge on how United finish this campaign. With Champions League qualification within touching distance, every decision—from lineup choices to tactical tweaks—will be scrutinized. Liverpool, under Arne Slot, are equally motivated. A win at Old Trafford could see them leapfrog United in the table and apply real pressure in the race for third. For both clubs, a defeat would be a significant setback, making Sunday’s contest a true six-pointer.
Kickoff is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Eastern U.S. time (3:30 p.m. local UK time), with coverage available on Sky Sports Premier League in the UK, NBC Sports and USA channel in the U.S., Telemundo for Spanish-language viewers, and DAZN or Fubo in Canada. For global fans, LiveSoccerTV has all the viewing options.
As the teams prepare to take the pitch, anticipation is at fever pitch. Will Fernandes break the assist record? Can United’s home form hold up under pressure? Or will Liverpool’s attacking depth prove decisive? One thing’s for sure: with so much on the line, Old Trafford is set for a classic encounter that could shape the Premier League’s top four for seasons to come.
With both sides desperate for Champions League football and recent meetings delivering drama and goals aplenty, all eyes turn to Manchester for what promises to be a thrilling, season-defining battle. The action is about to unfold—and fans everywhere will be glued to every moment.