)
Manchester United vs Liverpool preview and predicted line-ups
As the curtain prepares to rise on the final act of their pre-season preparations, Liverpool and Manchester United face off in a highly anticipated clash at the William-Brice Stadium in Columbia, South Carolina.
Both clubs are eager to fine-tune their squads and gain momentum before the competitive season kicks off, making this encounter a crucial marker of their readiness for the challenges ahead.
)
09:17 - 03.08.2024
FKFPL fixtures released: Who will Gor Mahia & AFC Leopards face in their first matches of the 2024/25 season?
Find out who Gor Mahia, AFC Leopards, Shabana and other FKFPL teams will face when the 2024/25 season commences on August 24.
Follow Pulse Sports Kenya for more updates.
Liverpool’s pre-season progress
Liverpool, under the guidance of Arne Slot, have showcased a promising pre-season campaign, including a notable 2-1 victory over Arsenal.
The Reds have been in impressive form, particularly with Harvey Elliott orchestrating play in the number 10 role.
Elliott’s incisive passes and creativity have been pivotal, highlighted by his assists for Mohamed Salah and Fabio Carvalho in the Arsenal win.
)
19:31 - 02.08.2024
The millions Gor Mahia will miss out on after failing to feature at Coal City International Cup
Gor Mahia players’ go-slow has proven costly to the club as the Kenyan champions will miss out on a big fortune following their inability to travel to Nigeria for the Coal City tournament.
While Liverpool have managed to secure two pre-season victories, their form has not been without its hiccups.
The Reds offered little in the second half of their match against Arsenal, a period where Arsenal’s dominance in possession did not translate into a goal-scoring barrage.
Nonetheless, Liverpool's sturdy defensive structure and tactical discipline have been impressive, and Slot will look to maintain these aspects as they prepare to face Manchester United.
Manchester United’s pre-season form
Manchester United have experienced a roller-coaster pre-season, marked by a familiar pattern of loss and win.
Their recent victory over Real Betis in San Diego was a welcome boost following a narrow defeat to Arsenal.
)
14:00 - 23.07.2024
Guardiola comments on Kevin De Bruyne's exit rumours
Kevin De Bruyne joined Man City in 2015 and has won 15 trophies
In an exhilarating first half against Betis, goals from Iker Losada, Marcus Rashford, Amad Diallo, and Casemiro showcased United’s attacking prowess.
However, the defensive lapses were evident, as Diego Llorente’s goal kept the game tense until the final whistle.
The Red Devils' pre-season has been overshadowed by a series of injury setbacks. New signing Leny Yoro is expected to be sidelined for three months due to a foot injury sustained against Arsenal.
Rashford, Antony, and Rasmus Hojlund are also currently unavailable, which poses a significant challenge for Erik ten Hag.
Despite these setbacks, United’s ability to adapt and secure victories has been commendable, and Ten Hag will aim to harness this resilience in the upcoming fixture.
)
10:45 - 12.07.2024
7 worst ever Chelsea signings? A look back at costly transfers that didn't work out
These are the Chelsea signings with the lowest impact
Key Battle:
The key battle will be between Liverpool's midfield maestros and Manchester United's makeshift defence.
Harvey Elliott’s creativity and vision will be crucial for Liverpool as they look to exploit any gaps in United’s defense, which has been impacted by injuries.
Conversely, United’s makeshift defensive line-up will need to be at their best to contain the attacking threats posed by Salah, Carvalho, and others.
Predicted line-ups:
Liverpool (4-2-3-1):
Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Van Dijk, Matip, Robertson; Henderson, Mac Allister; Salah, Elliott, Carvalho; Núñez
**Manchester United (4-3-3):**
De Gea; Wan-Bissaka, Varane, Lindelöf, Shaw; Fernandes, Eriksen, Casemiro; Sancho, Martial, Garnacho
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)