The highly anticipated Premier League clash between Liverpool and Manchester United is under the shadow of bad weather, as heavy snowfall blankets the UK. Scheduled for January 5, 2024, the match, set to kick off at 4:30 PM GMT at Anfield, faces uncertainty due to amber weather warnings issued across North England, including the Liverpool area. With temperatures hovering below freezing, this has raised concerns not just about the pitch's condition but also about the safety of traveling fans.
On Sunday morning, both Manchester Airport and Liverpool John Lennon Airport were forced to close runways due to the massive snowfall overnight, affecting travel plans for thousands. Both clubs are currently preparing for the match, but the Liverpool City Council's Safety Advisory Group is slated to meet early Sunday to discuss whether it is safe for fans to make the trip, especially those traveling from Manchester to Liverpool.
Previously, Liverpool have experienced match disruptions due to adverse weather. Fans will recall the Merseyside derby against Everton was postponed last month due to extreme conditions caused by Storm Darragh. With temperatures remaining around 1°C, the risk of icy roads poses significant concerns for safely transporting fans to and from Anfield.
The amber weather warning from the Met Office indicates potential risks to life and significant travel disruptions, warning fans about the harsh conditions. "Snow will become persistent and locally heavy as it pushes south to north across the warning area," the Met Office stated, predicting accumulations of 3-7 cm of snow throughout the day.
Local authorities are taking precautions and advising spectators to assess their travel plans and be well-prepared. Travellers are encouraged to carry warm clothing, food, water, and even ice scrapers due to icy conditions predicted throughout the night. Reports indicate major roads between Manchester and Liverpool are already suffering from treacherous travel conditions.
During the Safety Advisory Group’s forthcoming meeting, officials will evaluate the roads, public transport operations, and the anticipated conditions after the match, as icy roads pose risks not only for fans’ arrival at Anfield but also for their return home.
Should the match be postponed, it could create scheduling complications for Liverpool, who have already had one game canceled this season. Liverpool is currently sitting at the top of the Premier League, holding the potential to extend their lead over Arsenal to eight points if they manage to secure victory against their fierce rivals. Conversely, Manchester United finds themselves mired at 14th place, struggling to climb out of the lower ranks with their recent performances.
Despite Liverpool’s current advantage, manager Arne Slot has expressed respect for Manchester United. "They have much higher quality players than their league position indicates," he noted, anticipatory of a challenging encounter on Sunday, weather permitting. United’s new manager, Ruben Amorim, is hopeful for improvement as his side aims to turn their fortunes around after enduring consecutive losses. Amorim stated, "We had more time to train... and we want to improve the performance compared to the last game."
Safety officers will have the final say based on the latest updates from eyewitnesses and local traffic reports, determining if conditions dramatically improve before the match. Meanwhile, both clubs await the outcome, with Liverpool fans longing to witness what promises to be another thrilling chapter between two of English football’s most storied teams.